Project Overview

The Girindi Khola Micro Hydropower Project (75 kW), promoted by AEPC, NREP & UKAID, was commissioned on 2065-10-21 BS. Since then, it has been providing reliable local electrification and uplifting the quality of life in Badigad VDC.

Originally designed as an off-grid power system, the project is now transitioning to become a grid-connected net-metered plant, ensuring mutual benefits for the project, the local community, and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) while preserving valuable local resources.

Runhydro’s Role

Runhydro was entrusted with the Supply, Delivery, Installation, Testing & Commissioning of a grid-compatible synchronizing panel (DLCS V2.0 XP) and associated auxiliary systems.

Our scope of work included:

• DLCS V2.0 XP Grid Synchronizing Panel – designed and integrated in-house by Runhydro.

• Auxiliary Systems:

  • Online UPS & Battery Bank

  • 11 kV Outdoor VCB (CNAISO brand)

  • 125 kVA Step-Up Transformer

  • Protection-class CT/PT and 11 kV CRP Panel

• Earthing System – new earth electrodes for generator neutral, transformer neutral, VCB & switchyard body, metering units, and surge/lightning protection.

Technology Integration

The DLCS V2.0 XP Panel incorporates state-of-the-art relays and controllers, delivering fully tested and verified performance in:

• Ballast Load Control

• Generator Control & Protection

• Generator Excitation

• Grid Synchronization

Key technology components:

• DEIF GPC-3 Hydro – main protection and control relay for generator and grid interface.

• DLC by Renerconsys (Indonesia) – ballast load controller ensuring speed stability, especially critical for the crossflow turbine (with no jet-blocking provision).

• Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) – replacing the old compound excitation system.

• Grid-Compatible DLC with Thyristors – replacing the legacy off-grid ELC, ensuring smooth and reliable load control.

System Performance & Features

• Dual Synchronization Modes: both automatic and manual synchronization available.

• Frequency Regulation: 49–51 Hz maintained for stable grid connection.

• Fast Ballast Load Engagement: automatic engagement immediately after ACB tripping, preventing generator overspeed.

• Enhanced Reliability: auxiliary power supplied via new battery bank with online UPS, protecting sensitive components.

• Reduced Operator Dependency: automatic synchronization minimizes manual interventions.

• Comprehensive Testing: verified under both island (isolation) and grid-synchronization conditions.

Project Outcomes

• Seamless Grid Integration: the plant is now fully capable of synchronizing with the national grid.

• Improved Reliability & Safety: modern protection relays, UPS-backed auxiliary systems, and updated earthing ensure operational robustness.

• Future-Proof Operations: upgraded systems ensure compliance with NEA requirements and extend the plant’s operational life.

• Community & Utility Benefit: local energy resources are preserved while contributing clean energy to the national grid.