Model Energy VDC: A Dream Comes True

The Bhoksing VDC has been declared as the Model Energy VDC by the Eight District Council of the Parbat District Development Committee. One of the 55 VDCs of the Parbat district, the Bhoking has become the first VDC that has electricity access to its all 234 households. This has become possible due to the installation of two micro hydro plants, two plethoric sets and 17 solar home systems. Besides, all the households have constructed the improved cook stoves, which have helped reduced the fuelwood consumption by about 30 percent.

The process got rolled with the implementation of the REDP activities in the VDC in 1997. Following the REDP community mobilization process, the people have organized into 22 community organizations (COs), of which 11 are female COs. Under the weekly saving scheme, the CO members have saved a total of Rs. 188, 965 and made the cumulative investment of Rs. 437,880 to the members for carrying out various income generating activities. Among others, the popular enterprises include the poultry farming, battery charging, potato chip production, agro-processing mill, photo studio and video theatre. People do no have to travel 37 km to the district headquarter and spend lots of money for taking photos now. Similarly, they have easy access to information and entertainment through radio, TV and video.

The credit goes to the people, both men and women, who have demonstrated the strong social capital, dedication and determination for these impressive achievements and results. The DDC: REDS has been successful in supporting the villagers through the provision of guidance, technical backstopping and financial assistance.

The concept of developing an energy village has been discussed for a long time at the national and international arenas. Many approaches and modalities and technology mix have been devised and implemented but without producing successes. The Energy Village is still a dream concept for many intellectuals and planners and is thus a matter of discussion and debate. Thanks to the people of Bhoksing VDC, who made Nepal proud to be able to present a model Energy Village that is functional as well as sustainable. Days are not far to have more energy villages, as people of adjoining VDCs and nearby districts have shown similar commitment and efforts to provide electricity to all households in their respective VDCs. The REDP has been supporting them through DDC: REDSs of the respective districts. Along with other stakeholders, the REDP is happy to support this initiative which has helped to make the long cherished dream come true in Nepal.