REDP had supported 15 Research and Development (R&D) initiatives to a number of academic institutes, consulting firms and private sector R&D organisations. Out of them (15), nine R&D inititatives were conducted with the active involvement of villagers at the community levels. As the results, villagers have taken the ownership of these systems for their continued operation and management. These technologies have brought immense benefits at the local levels.

The list of the REDP supported R&D initiatives are given below.

1. Pre stressed RCC Poles
2. Low Head Propeller Turbines
3. Field testing of Biomass Gasifier
4. Quality Improvement of Plant Seed Oil
5. Three phase Induction Generator Controller
6. Pump as Turbine
7. Turgo Turbine
8. Field testing of Horizontal Axis Peltric Set
9. Hydro Mechanical Governor
10. Low Cost Rural Lighting (WLED)
11. Grid Connection of Micro Hydro Scheme
12. Motor Starting System for Micro Hydro Plants
13. Preservative Treatment for Wooden Poles in Micro Hydro Schemes
14. Computer Aided Design for Micro hydro Schemes
15. Study of a Material Ropeway in Dailekh District

These initiatives were selected based on a study conducted by Micro Hydro Consultant Pvt. Ltd. in 1997. The study recommended a number of potential areas for the R&D for REDP supports after making a detail interaction with related stakeholders. The initiatives which could be field tested and are applicable and bear impact at the local levels were given priority.

Lessons Learnt

1. Technologies or initiatives should be financially viable and cost less than other available alternatives.
2. Technologies or initiatives shall be made of domestically and/ or locally available materials. This will help to reduce maintenance cost.
3. These technologies or initiatives must be replicated in other areas of Nepal whereever applicable.