REACH

REACH Leads to a Demonstration Micro-Hydro Project in Indonesia

The development of a micro-hydropower (MHP) generation utilizing the irrigation channel of Wangan Aji is now being implemented in Central Java, Indonesia. The project was identified and developed into a pre-feasibility study under the regional technical assistance project on Promotion of Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency and Greenhouse Gas Abatement (PREGA). PREGA is cofinanced by the Dutch Cooperation Fund for Promotion of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency under ADB's REACH Program.

With funding from ADB's Poverty and Environment Program, the Wangan Aji MHP, a decentralized and community-based micro-hydropower project, will provide electricity to the community of Wangan Aji and generate income from sale of surplus electricity. It will also demonstrate the technical viability of utilizing the irrigation channel in Wonosobo for electricity generation and prove that such an approach is economically feasible under the government instrument of "PSK Tersebar", which is a facility that promotes the development of distributed small power generation utilizing renewable energy sources. The subproject will increase livelihood generation options and better health, education and communication facilities of the community, thereby alleviating poverty levels of the community and preserving the natural environment. The project reduces CO2 emissions replacing fossil fuel-based electricity generation; particularly from diesel powered generating sets, and reduces local air pollution.

Civil works have started for the 125 kW Wangan Aji MHP. The cooperative and consultants are in the process of procuring the machinery and equipment. The provincial level officials have showed strong support for the project and indicated that it will serve as a demonstration model for the technical and economic feasibility of similar MHPs in the region. The district level officials are enthusiastic about the project and have suggested other potential sites. On implementation and operation, the revolving fund established for this project will provide financial support to other MHPs. Officials from PT PLN headquarters in Jakarta in a recent visit to the site have confirmed PLN's interest in purchasing electricity from the project.

Meeting with Mines and Energy Office of Central Java Province	Local Government Officials, Cooperative Representatives and Wangan Aji Irrigation Canal
Wangan Aji Irrigation Canal	Construction Work in Progress at the Micro Hydro Site