Micro-hydroelectricity in Solomon Islands: current status October 2010

82% of Solomon Islanders reside in rural areas predominantly in village groupings. The majority of villages are located near to rivers for supply of drinking and washing water. The mountainous nature of the majority of the country offers significant potential for renewable electricity generation through the use of micro-hydroelectric technology. However, only nine systems exist, and of these only six have proven reliable. It is suggested micro-hydro has the potential to supply the significant bulk of Solomon Islands’ electricity needs. However, it is argued that current international donor transparency procedures associated with feasibility studies have created an environment that stalls developments.