Chambamontera is an isolated community in the Andes Mountains, Peru.
It is more than two hours’ drive on a rough track from the nearest town Jaen.
Why does Chambamontera need a sustainable energy scheme?
Most people are dependent on subsistence farming with some small scale coffee growing or rearing of livestock.
Chambamontera has an energy deficit.
Development of Chambamontera has been restricted by lack of electricity for heat, light and power.
Nearly half the population survive on just US$2 per day.
Due to the low population density in Chambamontera, it is uneconomic to build an electricity grid to serve the area.
What is the micro-hydro scheme?
The solution to Chambamontera's energy deficit involved constructing a micro-hydro scheme with help from the charity Practical Action.
High rainfall, steep slopes and fast flowing rivers make this area ideal for the scheme.
The total cost for the micro-hydro scheme was US$51,000.
The scheme was funded by government money and investment from Japan.
The average cost per family was US$750. Credit facilities were made available to pay for this.
How has the scheme benefitted the local community
Provides renewable energy.
Has little environmental impact.
Has low maintenance and running costs.
Used local labour and materials.
Reduction in rural-urban migration – the population has grown.
Regulating the flow of water has reduced the danger of flooding.
Less need to burn wood as a source of heat – reduced deforestation and risk of soil erosion.
The scheme will last at least 25 years.
Electricity is now available in the winter when heating demands are high.
Street light allows people to go outside after dark.
People have been able to create their own businesses with greater access to electricity. For example, small machines can now be used for coffee de-husking and processing.
Healthcare has improved because refrigeration allows storage of medicines.
Improved school facilities.
Examples of exam questions
Use an example from a LIC/NEE to explain how local strategies are being used to increase sustainable supplies of energy. [6 marks]