JLA Hydro had the opportunity to implement this training program in Rwanda between 2016 and 2018. With this positive and enriching experience, JLA Hydro offers to cooperate with other associations to reiterate this training which can be useful to other communities.

This program enables the development of the pico-hydroelectricity sector. Indeed, there are many sites that can be equipped with small turbogenerators. The equipment for these sites is not provided by international companies because its cost is too high compared to the energy produced. On the other hand, local entrepreneurs generally lack the knowledge and experience to carry out these projects reliably and sustainably. This training program aims to train local entrepreneurs who will be able to equip these untapped sites.

This program does not require expertise in hydropower from the participants, only a general knowledge of energy and basic technical knowledge (electricity, mechanics). This training program focuses on putting into practice the core theoretical skills of the sector.

The main object of the training is to help contractors equip a pilot site. As part of the program, an isolated site will be equipped which will produce electricity. On the other hand, the trained entrepreneurs will implement a site that they can use as a reference. This local reference site will be a good starting point to convince donors likely to finance other sites. The materials and tools distributed to the trainees will help to set up a local team of competent and equipped people capable of carrying out various technical interventions.

The training program consists of theoretical and practical modules taught in the field and in class. They are taught to a limited number of participants. This allows individualized support. It also allows a federation of participants between them. Ideally, for the training to be effective, these participants are entrepreneurs / technicians and will have practical experience in the sector. Nevertheless this training is open to any motivated person having sufficient technical knowledge in mechanics and electricity in order to be able to follow it. The explanations and course notes are given in French or English but an oral translation into the local language can be provided so that the training is accessible to all. Training materials will be provided to participants (notepads, pens, lecture notes, turbine parts, tools, GPS, optical level, salt dilution flow meter,  gloves, pair of glasses , …)

 

The theoretical course modules are taught in a class equipped with a computer, an overhead projector, a board with markers / chalks. The theoretical sessions are all followed and / or preceded by practical sessions. The practical course modules are delivered either in the workshop or in the field, in 2 groups. During the practical training workshops on turbine construction, it is planned to build a machine for each group of 8 participants. Travel to the classroom, to the site, to the workshop and the accommodation for participants are provided by the project when necessary.