Finding Potential Sites for Small-Scale Hydro Power in Uganda: a ...

AbstractOver 2 billion people, mostly in developing countries, have no access to modern fuels orelectricity. The necessity of clean, efficient, reliable and affordable energy services is acrucial issue in developing countries, especially in the context of rural areas where themajority of the people lives. Renewable energy sources in shape of small-scalehydropower systems are a complement or alternative to grid extension. The purpose ofthis study was to develop a method in order to find potential sites for small-scalehydropower in our study area in southwestern Uganda, by using a GeographicalInformation System (GIS) and also to investigate the rural energy situation in the area. AGIS is a computerized information system for collecting and handling data in databasesas well as a powerful tool for analysis and visualization of geographical data. The resultsindicate a generally positive attitude to electricity and all interviewees were in great needof its services. Almost all consider themselves to have some means to pay for theelectricity even if it is more expensive than what the energy cost today. Our self-designedalgorithm identified 250 potential sites for small-scale hydropower stations in the studyarea. A selection of 14 sites out of these was evaluated and resulted in only three sitesfulfilling the defined requirements. All sites met the requirement regarding a certainslope, but the majority lacked a permanent flow of water. The outcome from theevaluation was a result of low quality of the watercourse input data. In conclusion, ourmethod is swift and precise, presupposed reliable input data is available. Presupposedthere is a need for electricity and good financing possibilities, small-scale hydropower isan appropriate alternative to assist rural electrification, which will lead to improvedstandard of living.i