Empowering rural electrification in the Philippines: a case study

Abstract: The paper describes the application of micro hydro power to improve the quality of life of people in rural areas. In this paper, two case studies in the Philippines are presented. One case study is a micro hydro power plant located in Parina in the north of the Philippines developed by an academic institution, De La Salle University; it utilises simple technology. In contrast to Parina, another micro hydro case study developed by a non-governmental organisation (NGO), YAMOG, is located in Timodos in the southern region of the Philippines; it implements more sophisticated technology. Even with differences in technology, similarities in terms of community dynamics, preparation, development, and impact on the community are evident in both case studies. The implementation phases for the two case studies were analysed to determine the characteristics for a successful micro hydro project in conjunction with its social impact. It is shown that micro hydro is a potential solution for clean and sustainable energy access for rural areas.

Keywords: Micro hydro, rural electrification, social impact

Article posted to the Journal of the British Academy, volume 11, supplementary issue 7 (Energy Access and Justice in the Asia-Pacific)