Girindi Khola MHP: From Off-Grid to Grid-Connected Success
The Girindi Khola Micro Hydropower Project (75 kW), promoted by AEPC, NREP, and UKAID, was commissioned on 2065-10-21 BS. Since then, it has been serving the local community of Badigad VDC through electrification, contributing to improved quality of life and socio-economic development.
Originally designed as an off-grid power system, the project electrified remote households beyond the reach of the national grid. With the extension of the national grid to its vicinity, the project is now transitioning to grid connection through net-metering—a model that ensures benefits for the local community, the project, and the NEA, while preserving valuable local resources.
Runhydro’s Contribution
Runhydro was entrusted with the Supply, Delivery, Installation, Testing & Commissioning of a grid-compatible synchronizing panel and auxiliary systems. The scope of work included:
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DLCS V2.0 XP Synchronizing Panel – Designed and integrated in-house by Runhydro with advanced relays and controllers.
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Auxiliary Systems – Online UPS, Battery Bank, 11kV VCB, and 125 kVA Step-Up Transformer.
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Switchgear & Protection – CNAISO outdoor VCB, protection class CT/PT, and 11kV CRP panel.
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Earthing Systems – New earth electrodes for generator neutral, transformer neutral, VCB & switchyard, metering units, and SPD/LA.
Advanced Control & Protection Systems
The DLCS V2.0 XP panel incorporates a robust combination of controllers and relays:
Main Controller: DEIF GPC-3 Hydro – manages generator control, protection, excitation, and grid synchronization.
Ballast Load Control: DLC from Renerconsys, Indonesia.
Automatic Synchronization: Provides both manual and automatic provisions. With stable grid parameters, synchronization occurs automatically, minimizing operator interventions.
Frequency Regulation: Maintains 49Hz–51Hz range for smooth grid operation.
Excitation System: Upgraded from compound excitation to AVR.
Load Control: Old off-grid ELC replaced with grid-compatible DLC using 6 thyristors for precise load handling.
Special care was taken in turbine operation, since the T15 Cross Flow turbine lacks jet-blocking provisions after tripping. In such cases, the DLC rapidly engages after ACB tripping to maintain generator speed stability.
Enhanced Reliability
To safeguard sensitive electrical components, auxiliary power for the DLCS and VCB panels is supplied through a battery bank with online UPS. This setup ensures uninterrupted protection and control functions, adding an extra layer of operational security.
Salient Features of Girindi Khola MHP
Project Name: Girindi Khola MHEP
Design Discharge: 365 LPS
Gross Head: 43 m
Beneficiary Households: 743 HH
Penstock: 98 m length, 3.5 mm thickness, 350 mm diameter
Turbine: T15 Cross Flow
Canal Length: 1,572 m
Generator: 160 kVA KEL Brushless Synchronous
Installed Capacity: 75 kW
Load Center: Wards 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 of Baglung
Ownership: Community-based, supported by World Bank, UNDP, AEPC, REDP, DDC, VDC & local people
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