More hydro power dams in the offing

THE Energy, Water and Sanitation Authority (EWSA), together with a UK-based company-Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution Company, have identified several rivers with potential to generate hydro-power in the country. Paul Darrel an electricity consultant with the British company said rivers in Musanze District can produce electricity that can significantly contribute generation to the national grid. Darrel said although most of the rivers depend much on rain water, they are to install generators to increase generation of power during the dry season.“We plan to generate more hydro power from different rivers like Mazimeru, Musarara, Giciye and Mukungwa for Mukungwa III Hydro-Power project,” he said.He adds that the company is still carrying out more assessments on other rivers so that they build dams on them.The UK based company is also behind the construction of a four hundred Kilo Watt power dam on the Gatseke River also in Musanze district. The project which started in 2006 is slated for completion this year.Vincent Hakizimana the site superintendent said they have had some delays but he is optimistic that by the end of this month all will be complete and in January the dam will be tested. “We are sure that by the end of this month we will have the dam complete,” he said.The project consultant said they have also been delayed by the topography of the area. “We have employed over a thousand people around the area, because most of the construction material is transported by the people on their heads like concrete, stones and timber among others,” he said.He said this project is intended to supply electricity mainly to health centres and hospitals which is the main reason the proprietor of the project Dr Caleb King wanted.

National

More hydro power dams in the offing