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A Nepalese community-based organization, Lamjung Electricity Development Company (LEDCO), is a business that produces and supplies hydroelectric power to local residents and for sale to the national electricity utility. This is an innovative approach for Nepal that, if successful, would provide a model for other districts across the country. LEDCO currently has part ownership in two small scale hydro projects and the development of three additional facilities is underway. As a result of its activities, more than 17,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions are offset annually and thousands of Nepali villagers receive clean and consistent electricity.

The Need

Despite the country’s great potential to produce hydroelectric power, over 60% of the country is un-electrified and relies on firewood and animal waste for the vast majority of its energy. Moreover, even areas connected to the national grid experience rolling black outs and load shedding. Like many other developing countries around the world, Nepal is experiencing an energy crisis that affects not only quality of life but also productivity.

E+Co Value Added

E+Co made an equity investment in the company and provided it with guidance in the structuring of the Khudi project’s finances and helped to convince their Canadian partner to join in the project. Over the years E+Co has supported the LEDCO Board of Directors in strategic planning for the growth of the Company. In 2006, at the request of LEDCO Board, E+CO negotiated and helped execute the sale of a significant equity interest in the development of the Nyadi hydropower project.