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Kathmandu Electric Vehicle Alliance - n/a Environment: Forestry, Energy & Environmental Services Nepal 2002 - 2006 USAID |
Strategic Alliance Promotes Expanded Use of Electric Vehicles
RATIONALEThe health of Kathmandu Valley residents is under assault from air pollution. Poorly maintained and out-dated motor vehicles with unfiltered exhaust systems contribute significantly to the problem. The Government of Nepal estimated that in a single day, 56 tons of hydrocarbons, 7 tons of nitrogen oxides, and just under one ton each of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter are discharged through tail pipes of vehicles in Kathmandu. The World Bank's Urban Air Quality Study estimated that health damage costs in the Valley due to air pollution totaled the equivalent of $4.4 million per year in premature deaths, respiratory problems, and other illnesses that restrict work. Electric vehicles that do not emit air pollutants are the most environmentally beneficial mode of transportation
OBJECTIVES
Promote public policy and regulatory dialogue, heighten public awareness and advocacy, and support technology and business promotion to expand the use of non-polluting electric vehicles. Winrock's Renewable Energy Project Support Office (REPSO) in Nepal is the implementation coordinator for the Kathmandu Electric Vehicle Alliance.
ACTIVITIES
The Kathmandu Electric Vehicle Alliance identifies and eliminates constraints to the expansion of the electric vehicle industry and promotes electric vehicle systems and technologies. The project targets work in four areas: Catalyzing Alliances - bringing together agencies, organizations, and stakeholders Policy & Regulatory Dialogue - facilitating and supporting a favorable environment Public Awareness & Advocacy - forging partnerships with nongovernmental organizations to increase awareness and strengthen the involvement of electric vehicle operators in policy development. Technology & Business Promotion - identifying gaps within the industry, working with entrepreneurs to develop cost effective business models, supporting technical improvement to reduce operating costs and improve profitability
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The Kathmandu Electric Vehicle Alliance (KEVA) was successfully able to convince the government to lift the restriction on registration of electric vehicles (Safa Tempo) and reactivate the electric trolley bus services in Kathmandu. KEVA supported the introduction of daily battery leasing for Safa Tempos which involved charging stations in learning about the proper installation and maintenance of batteries ultimately increasing longevity. The project also promoted an owner driver concept in the Safa Tempo industry. KEVA supported initiatives to use Safa Tempos in the tourism industry. Project activities brought air pollution to the forefront and increased involvement of local partners in dealing with the issues.