Download Improved Power Poles for Very Low Cost A

Researching Very Low Cost Pico Hydro Schemes in Rural Uganda
URSS Researcher: Jonathan May
Supervisor: Dr Colin Oram
Improved Power Poles for Very Low Cost
Rural Electrification Schemes in Uganda
ABSTRACT
Water intrusion and termite damage are two major issues in rural electrification in East
Africa. These issues, particularly in mountainous terrain, increase the risk of pole instability
and failure; which might result in both electrical and human damage. Industrial methods of
pole protection are relatively expensive for use in international development work, and
difficult to implement in mountainous regions.
This project analyses and tests the viability of concrete ‘Godfathers’ to fulfil this purpose at
low cost whilst adding stability to poles in areas subject to regular storms. Godfather moulds
were transported to Mount Gesse Primary School, where rotting of electricity poles was
found to be a major problem due to water intrusion and termite damage. Due to the
school’s mountainous location, building materials were sourced locally using natural
substances where possible: sand for the concrete was dug from the river bed, and aggregate
was made from rocks taken from the mountainside. Various construction and installation
methods were experimented with, alongside local volunteers who were taught the best
methods for different scenarios. Termites were reluctant to climb up the Godfather to reach
the timber pole while there was more accessible wood in the area.