Application of improved micro-hydro systems in remote communities in Honduras

  • Country: Honduras
    Location: Comunidad de San Miguelito, Quimistán, Departamento de Santa Bárbara
    Start date: 01/01/2016
    End date: 30/06/2017
    Applicant(s): Fundación ETEA, University Loyola
    Local partner(s): Fundación Hondureña para la Investigación Agrícola (FHIA)
    Funder: AECID
    Funding: 110.000,00 EUR
    Research line: Engineering

In order to alleviate poverty through energy generation with socially and environmentally friendly projects, ETEA and FHIA propose the development of energy projects using water. In recent years, FHIA with the help of international cooperation has developed 35 projects of this nature in remote rural communities. A typical micro-hydro electricity generation project generates between 7.5 and 15 kW and provides service for between 20 and 50 families. This decision is based on the fact that in Honduras 80-85% of its territory is made up of mountains up to 2,500 m high and has a rainy period on the North Coast of 9 months (1200 to 4000 mm of rain/year), which makes this type of project feasible.

The main objective of the project is the generation of electricity, the improvement of the living conditions of the population and the conservation of the environment. By using the generation of electricity as an incentive for the communities, it is achieved that they participate in the conservation of natural resources, forest, soil and water.