Run-of-River Hydro
Impact Type
Solution Type
Team Size
Location
Offset
Hydro
74
C. America
About this Project
What is the issue? There's a significant problem in the rugged mountain regions of Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua: the absence of a reliable electricity grid coverage. This lack not only hinders the local remote communities' development and quality of life but also restricts their opportunities for employment and education. The rugged terrain and isolated locations further compound these challenges. What is the solution? The Guacamaya program provides a holistic solution to this problem. The program has established three separate run-of-water hydroelectric plants, which directly serve the local remote communities by supplying clean electricity. Notably, these power plants are operated by local inhabitants, creating jobs and introducing modern technology in these regions. The plants are designed to be adaptable to the local conditions, having a maximum installed capacity of 15 MW. They can be managed entirely by the communities, furthering local involvement and skills development. To ensure minimal environmental impacts, the program has strict monitoring and reporting obligations in place. Furthermore, it includes reforestation and afforestation initiatives, and programs to educate the communities on social and environmental issues. This comprehensive approach contributes to both socio-economic development and environmental preservation.
Fact File
⚡ 15MW max installed capacity
💨 3 separate run-of-river hydro plants
🏫 Creation of 74 full-time jobs
Partnerships & Certification
How you can help
Supporting the Guacamaya program is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it addresses the critical need for reliable and clean electricity in remote mountain communities, thereby directly improving their quality of life and fostering socioeconomic development. Secondly, by creating jobs and teaching locals to manage the hydro plants, it empowers these communities with new skills and opportunities. Lastly, with its strong commitment to minimal environmental impact, including reforestation initiatives and environmental education, the program ensures the protection and sustainability of these precious natural environments.
Furthr Contribution
Annual Carbon Prevented
2888 tonnes
Project Locations
SDG Certifications
Good Health & Wellbeing: Emission reduction of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen monoxide (NO). Studies prove a significant correlation between high con- centrations of SO2 or NO and cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.
Decent Work & Economic Growth: Creation of 74 full-time jobs for men and women in rural regions.
Quality Education: Electrification of educational center in the community of El Salto, Honduras. The electrification enables the school to conduct computer classes, improving skills in information and communication technology.
Affordable & Clean Energy: Generation and distribution of 75,000 MWh clean energy to rural, underdeveloped regions, increases the total share of renewable energy within the national energy mix and secures local energy supply.
Climate Action: Annual reduction of 40,000 tons CO2-eq. The reduction is in line with the countries‘ ratification of the second commitment period of the Kyoto protocol and NDCs, submitted in accordance with the Paris Agreement.
Partnership for the Goals: Transfer of revenue share and support of environmentally sound technology development, since Carbonbay, as project partner, is responsible for the distribution of the generated carbon credits.