The 100-KW project was jointly developed by UNDP, Rural Energy Development Program (REDP), Buffer Zone Community Forest Users Group and local community with the investment of Rs 23.24 million. [break]
REDP provided 40 percent of the total cost, while local community, Buffer Zone Community Forest Users Group and UNDP chipped in 24 percent, 23 percent and 13 percent of the project cost respectively. The construction completed in June 8, 2008.
Addressing the inaugural function, Minister Sharma said hydropower projects like this are beneficial to people and is necessary to lessen the dependency of local people on forest resources for energy.
Chhibber said the role of micro hydro projects is not only crucial in improving lifestyle of local people but also in controlling deforestation in the area. He also lauded the support of local community for the project that has been providing electricity to 193 households in Lukla.
The project is the first and the largest system built and owned by the local community with the support of REDP.
Apprising the dignitaries about the project, Ang Phurba Sherpa, project manager, informed that the project is generating 50 KW electricity at present.
Local people in this tourist hub have benefited a lot after the project started generating power. The energy generated from the project is being used in bakeries, hotels, lodges, restaurants, tailoring and general purposes such as lighting and heating.
“Electricity has contributed significantly to the development of tourism in Lukla as it has enabled us to provide better services to our guests,” said Dawa Tshiring Sherpa, proprietor of Himalaya Lodge in Lukla.
Around four dozen hotels and lodges are serving visitors in Lukla, often referred to as the gateway to the Everest Region.
Dawa Futi Sherpa, proprietor of Paradise Lodge and Restaurant, said electricity generated from the project has reduced people´s dependency on firewood and other fuels like kerosene, petrol, diesel and LPG.
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