Technical Knowledge Exchange Tools

Since the Hydro Empowerment Network (HPNET) was established in 2013, its members have requested tools to increase the technical reliability of hydro mini-grids, including
  • practitioner-approved technology standards
  • accessibility to experienced technical know-how
  • instilling community-led load management
  • trouble shooting tools for electronic load controllers.

With support from the WISIONS SEPS, in partnership with Tonibung and Green Empowerment, HPNET has developed a set of technical tools for small-scale hydro practitioners.  

With the evolving need of practitioners, HPNET will continue to upgrade the tools and create new ways for online learning.

MICRO HYDRO STANDARDS TOOL

The technical quality standards of hydro mini-grids differ between countries.  In addition, critical best practices developed by local practitioners with decades of experience are often not captured in formal standards.  HPNET's Micro Hydro Standards Tool is an interactive online tool allowing each practitioner to make informed technology decisions, based on existing standards and peer-to-peer best practices.

PRACTITIONERS DATABASE

Advancing the community-scale hydropower sector requires multi-actors, including technology suppliers, knowledge providers, policy and finance expertise, and project developers.  HPNET's Practitioners Database provides a  map of practitioners and lists of practitioners, classified by country and area of expertise.  The database will be updated monthly with new HPNET members who would like to be featured.

DIY HOUSEHOLD LOAD INDICATOR DEVICE 

The solution to mini-grid load management issues is to create awareness at the consumer level.  HPNET's Do-It-Yourself (DIY) "Canary" Load Indicator Device empowers the consumer to take action before overloading occurs. 

DIY LOAD CONTROLLER SIMULATION TOOL

The lack of local knowledge of Electronic Load Controllers (ELC) is often the reason for micro hydro shutdown. HPNET's Do-it-Yourself (DIY) ELC Simulation tool is a physical device designed to help train village operators on the functionality of ELCs.

HPNET APP FOR PRACTITIONERS

HPNET's digital app is a graphic-based tool to understand basic and in-depth technical aspects of community-scale hydropower.  The tool includes digital ELC Simulation Tool and micro hydro trouble-shooting guide.  The tool can be used on Android and Windows.