Uganda Gears Up To Enter Regional Electricity Market By November

Uganda, known for its surplus energy, is set to join the regional electricity market by November next year. However, the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) has expressed concerns about the lack of essential infrastructure needed for cross-border electricity trade.

During the recent Power and Electric International Expo, Jenkins Miiro, a UETCL representative, emphasized the critical need for infrastructure to facilitate seamless electricity exchange among neighboring countries.

Despite these challenges, Miiro highlighted Uganda’s surplus power as a key advantage in regional trade discussions.

Infrastructure and market rules remain key challenges

Miiro emphasized the importance of having dedicated infrastructure and a market operator for day-to-day monitoring in order to ensure efficient cross-border electricity trade.

The absence of these elements poses significant challenges. Uganda is currently conducting studies to interconnect with neighboring countries, including South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Rwanda.

With 97% of its electricity sourced from renewable sources, Uganda has a substantial advantage over many other countries in the region.

Renewable energy infrastructure 

Eng. Willy Kiryahika, a renewable energy consultant, stressed the need for government investment in renewable energy infrastructure to capitalize on the potential of regional electricity trade.

Uganda’s strategic central location and existing transmission infrastructure make it capable of effectively transmitting electricity to neighboring countries, generating revenue through exports. The concept of ‘wheeling’ was highlighted as a potential strategy, where Uganda could utilize its transmission network and charge a fee for transporting electricity to neighboring countries.

 Overcoming infrastructure hurdles to maximize potential 

Although Uganda is poised to become a significant player in the regional electricity market, it faces challenges related to the lack of robust supporting infrastructure. Developing this infrastructure is crucial not only for cross-border electricity trade but also for maximizing Uganda’s renewable energy potential on the international stage.

As preparations intensify and regional partnerships evolve, all eyes are on Uganda’s ability to overcome infrastructure hurdles and emerge as a powerhouse in the regional energy landscape

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