DefinePK

Abstract

Amid Pakistan’s evolving energy landscape—marked by a 62.1% fossil fuel dependency and persistent rural-urban access disparities—micro hydro power (MHP) systems offer a cost-effective and environmentally resilient solution. This review integrates technical, economic, and policy perspectives to evaluate the current and potential role of MHP in the country. It presents a structured analysis of turbine technologies (Pelton, Cross-flow, Kaplan, Turgo), their performance characteristics, and appropriate deployment contexts across various head and flow conditions. Drawing on case studies from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Punjab, the study highlights site-specific generation capacities, operational challenges (e.g., sedimentation, seasonal variability), and socio-economic impacts. Furthermore, it explores the institutional governance structure WAPDA, AEDB, PEPCO, and IPPs—and national policy initiatives under CPEC and the Alternative Energy Policy. The findings reveal that Pakistan’s mini-hydro capacity remains underutilized despite recent advancements in turbine efficiency and feed-in tariffs. Strategic expansion of MHP through modular designs, smart grid integration, and rural electrification incentives could significantly bridge the country’s energy access gap while aligning with its 2030 renewable energy targets.