Environmental Impact Assessment of Hydropower Plants in Rwanda: Nyabarongo I Hydropower Plant (NHPP I)

Hydropower is the primary renewable source of energy in Rwanda that harnesses the power of the naturally flowing water streams and its potential is strongly by the hydrological regime. In 2020, overall installed capacity of power was about 224.6 MW. Hydropower makes up approximately 46.8% of the total installed capacity. 12.8% is generated from run-of-river Nyabarongo 1 hydropower plant. The aim of this study is to describe the environmental impact assessment of hydropower plants in Rwanda. Nyabarongo I hydropower plant (NHPP I) used a case study and generated and contributed 12.8% to national installed capacity. A detailed environmental assessment audit approach has been adopted. The outcomes from physical assessment and analysis focus on plant operation and maintenance and end users. The NHPP1 which has a low visible impact, has additionally a minimal effect on the flora and wildlife. GHG emissions of NHPP1 are mainly from production, operation, protection and dismantling. In this physical assessment of NHPP1 the transportation, construction and set up stages have been no longer considered, the NHPP1 is a friendly environment handiest 43kg/MWh is emitted with the aid of a hydro, as a result, the rate of contribution to the reduction of GHG emissions is very excessive 94% as compared to the alternative energy in Rwanda.