Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rome (Agenzia Fides)- Africa has enormous hydroelectric power still to be exploited. This is affirmed in a recently published study by Wim Jonker Klunne, expert in renewable energy. Only 7% of Africa's hydroelectric potential is tapped, the expert says.
Klunne suggests using small plants instead of large ones which, besides being more expensive, would have a negative impact on the environment. These plants would also be more subject to the consequences of climate change, drought or the opposite, floods. “Small hydro-electric plants are still an attractive resource” writes Klunne “especially in more isolated parts of Africa. This tested technology can be connected to national or local electricity grids, or remain isolated perhaps associated with irrigation systems”.
Although there is no internationally recognised norms, a plant of 10 Megawatt power is generally described as a small hydro-electric plant, although countries such as China and India tend to raise the limit to 50 MW and 25 MW respectively. Less powerful plants (300 KW downwards) can be built making use of local resources and labour, whereas more powerful plants require imported technology and a site accessible to heavy machinery.
The United Nations Organisation has launched a number of programmes to exploit Africa's hydroelectric potential using small plants. One programme is to insert small hydroelectric generators in plantations in east Africa which necessitate great quantities of water. This experimental programme includes the construction of six hydro-electric plants in three East African countries members of the East African Tea Trade Association (EATTA). Another programme aims to supply electric power to rural areas in 10 west African countries with 36 small hydro-electric plants.
To diffuse know how in the sector, regional centres for staff training have been created, such as the Regional Centre for Small Hydro Power ad Abuja, Nigeria, promoted by the Economic Community of West African Countries (CEDEAO/ECOWS).
Other countries have already made ample use of this technology to electrify rural areas. This is the case of China, now ready to offer its know how to Africa. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 11/9/2007 righe 30 parole 356)
