6 February 2013: The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has implemented a project to construct 18 micro hydroelectric power plants in Bamiyan province, Afghanistan, with the support of the Governments of Denmark, Japan, the Netherlands and Norway and the EU.

These plants, which generate a cumulative 196 kilowatts of electricity and power 2,163 households, have benefitted more than 15,000 people by increasing access to electricity, creating local jobs and providing environmentally-friendly, sustainable energy sources.

UNDP reports that it has promoted local ownership and sustainability of the project by involving the local shura, assemblies of elder and religious scholars, in their construction and maintenance. The shura charges each household a monthly use rate per light bulb and television, which pays the salary of electricians that maintain the plants. The shura also places a percentage of the fees in a savings account for future maintenance costs or repairs. Despite the fees, household lighting costs in Bamiyan have decreased by nearly 90 percent since the installation of the plants and solar panels.

The plants also provide health and education benefits. By replacing kerosene oil, cow dung and wood with a clean alternative lighting alternative, the plants eliminate indoor air pollution. Further, one village has started a computer class for students and adults, which has increased participating villagers’ access to knowledge and technology.

Afghanistan has one of the lowest per capita rates of electricity consumption globally according to UNDP. The installation of the plants in Bamiyan province, which is not connected to a power grid, increased regional electricity access from 7 to 30 percent of the population. [UNDP Story] [UNDP Project Description]