ESIA for Solar Power Mini-Grid Project (2019) - Montrose International

ESIA for Solar Power Mini-Grid Project (2019)

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Client

Infra Capital Myanmar ReEx

Project Location

Myanmar

Project Duration

1 year

Total Value

Undisclosed

Value of Montrose Component

Undisclosed

Situation

Kha Laing Village, in Magway Region, has 291 households and a population of around 1,200.
Villagers are farmers and traders of crops and livestock.
Houses in Kha Laing use small solar power systems.
Some properties make use of a village diesel generator, but supply is erratic.
The client has an established relationship with the village and has confirmed land Tenure.
Limited biodiversity concern due to small project footprint, current disturbed condition of land, and no potential for habitat destruction.
No Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure is required due to the size and scope of the project.

Solution

Montrose experts visited the project site to:
- Discuss proposed operations and potential solar expansion with key in-country personnel.
- Understand baseline conditions, biodiversity, agriculture and use of natural resources
- Conduct rapid biodiversity surveys and gather information to inform progress and make recommendations.
- Develop species lists and highlight concerns.
A mini-grid consisting of solar photovoltaic modules, batteries and control devices will be installed in a 1,200sq m area.
An Environmental and Social Management Plan will guide construction and operational activities.

Impact

Montrose’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) identified and assessed the potential impacts of the project.
Montrose proposed environmental control plans, promoting sustainable development and high levels of environmental and social awareness.
The ESIA made recommendations on legal implications, risk management, and mitigation.
Electrification of the village will be ‘life-changing’ for many villagers and enhance the quality of life.
The project will provide reliable power to all households and small businesses.
The grid will also serve public facilities such as the school, streetlights and telecoms towers.