Govt Targets 60% Household Energy Access by End of FY2024/25

Permanent Secretary Irene Batebe highlighted that Uganda’s installed energy capacity had grown from 984MW in 2017/2018 to a projected 3,500MW by the 2024/2025 fiscal year.
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development in Uganda has outlined its performance during the NRM Manifestation Week, showcasing substantial advancements and pinpointing challenges as it works towards increasing household energy access and expanding energy capacity.
Representing Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, Permanent Secretary Irene Batebe highlighted that Uganda’s installed energy capacity had grown from 984MW in 2017/2018 to a projected 3,500MW by the 2024/2025 fiscal year.
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This progress stems from significant projects like the Nyak 3 Hydropower Plant and smaller hydropower installations nearing completion.
Looking ahead, the government targets a capacity of 52,000MW by 2040 through hydro, solar, and nuclear energy.
Efforts to extend energy access to households are central to the ministry’s agenda. It aims to achieve 60% household energy access by 2024/2025, a substantial leap from 24% in 2018/2019.
The strategy includes connecting 22% of households to the national grid, while 38% will rely on off-grid solutions.
By June 2024, 2,189,522 consumers had already been connected to the grid, with further increases anticipated as infrastructure projects are completed.
In regional energy trade, Uganda is expanding its partnerships beyond Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya to include South Sudan, with support from the African Development Bank.
Additionally, plans are underway to rehabilitate the Kiira-Nalubaale power complex.
Agnes Alaba, Commissioner in the mineral department, detailed advancements in mineral exploration, particularly for priority minerals and geothermal energy.
She noted that the Mining and Minerals Act of 2022 has strengthened sector management, fostering increased investment in mining and value addition.
Despite the progress, challenges persist. Land acquisition issues, compensation disputes, vandalism, lengthy negotiations, and inadequate financing remain hurdles.
The ministry is also reviewing the National Oil and Gas Policy, now over a decade old, for presentation to Cabinet.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to renewable energy promotion and enhancing legal and regulatory frameworks.
While Uganda’s energy and mineral strategies show promise, resolving these challenges will be critical to achieving long-term goals.