𝗔 𝗖𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝗟𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮𝘁 𝗨𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮’𝘀 𝗖𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀 𝗤𝘂𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸

Background:

Uganda's energy landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, as the country seeks to transition towards a more sustainable and clean energy-driven future. Despite its heavy reliance on traditional energy sources, Uganda's Energy Transition Plan (ETP) has set ambitious goals to enhance the adoption and utilization of clean energy technologies.

In an in-depth interview, we spoke with Michael Ahimbisibwe, Program Manager (REAP/REAL) at ADRA Uganda with extensive experience in water supply systems, renewable energy, WASH, humanitarian action, and refugee settings, to gain insights into the current status quo, key challenges, and the future outlook for clean energy in Uganda.

Interview Questions:

1. In your own opinion, what does the current share of clean energy in Uganda's overall energy mix look like?

I believe that Uganda's current share of clean energy in the overall energy mix is growing but still modest. Hydropower dominates, contributing a significant portion of our energy, solar is taken great milestones from lighting application to now heating and small extent of cooking but medium to large scale projects have been implemented in Uganda with a significant number of solar villages across the country. Other renewable sources are gradually increasing their share like bioethanol that is being optimized by different sugar companies is growing its production, biodiesel is still at small scale being tested for farm equipment in research institutions, Biogas has spread drastically at household level using livestock feedstock and many rural homesteads are using it for lighting, heating and cooking.

2. What are the primary clean energy sources being utilized, and what is their current capacity in supporting a just transition - trilemma?

The primary clean energy sources in Uganda are hydropower, solar, and biomass (biogas, bioethanol, biodiesel). Hydropower remains the largest contributor with several large dams operational, while solar energy is increasingly being adopted, especially in off-grid and rural areas. Biomass, although used extensively, needs to transition towards more sustainable and efficient methods. Hydropower current capacity is approximately 1,200 MW (Bujagali 250 MW, Karuma: 600 MW (expected completion soon), Isimba: 183 MW). Solar current capacity is approximately 50 MW (Soroti Solar Power Station: 10 MW, Tororo Solar Power Station: 10 MW and Kaiso-Tonya Solar Plant: 10 MW). Geothermal is currently under development, with an estimated potential of 450 MW but no significant operational capacity yet in the projects of Katwe-Kikorongo Geothermal Project at exploration and feasibility studies ongoing and Buranga Geothermal Project at exploration phase. For case of biomass the current capacity is approximately 100 MW excluding the domestic consumption, Projects like Kakira Sugar Works (Cogeneration using bagasse) at 50 MW, Kinyara Sugar Works (Cogeneration using bagasse) at 40 MW and Biomass Gasification Projects where various small-scale projects contributing to the remaining capacity. These sources are critical in addressing the trilemma of energy security, environmental sustainability, and social equity, but the capacity for a just transition requires significant enhancement and investment.

3. What are the key challenges and barriers that have hindered the widespread adoption of clean energy in Uganda?

The key challenges include limited infrastructure, high initial capital costs, insufficient funding, and a lack of awareness and education about clean energy benefits. Additionally, regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles can slow down the implementation of clean energy projects. In rural areas, the lack of grid connectivity and maintenance issues further hinder adoption.

4. What policies, incentives, and regulatory frameworks are in place to support the deployment and utilization of clean energy technologies?

Uganda has implemented several policies and frameworks to support clean energy, including the Renewable Energy Policy, Feed-in Tariff Policy, and the Uganda Energy Credit Capitalization Company (UECCC). These aim to provide financial incentives, support public-private partnerships, and reduce barriers to entry for renewable energy projects. However, there is a need for more comprehensive and supportive regulatory frameworks to fully realize the potential of clean energy.

5. What are the key emerging clean energy technologies and innovations that hold the most promise for Uganda's energy landscape?

Emerging technologies such as off-grid solar power systems, improved biomass cookstoves, and mini-grid solutions hold significant promise. Innovations in energy storage and grid management can also enhance the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy sources. Additionally, advancements in wind energy and geothermal power could diversify Uganda’s clean energy portfolio.

6. What are the potential socio-economic and environmental benefits that a successful clean energy transition can bring to Uganda?

A successful clean energy transition can bring numerous socio-economic benefits, including job creation, improved public health, and enhanced energy security. Environmentally, it can lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions, less deforestation, and more sustainable natural resource management. It also promotes social equity by providing affordable and reliable energy access to underserved communities.

7. In your own judgement, what will Uganda’s energy sector look like in the next 10 or so years?

In the next decade, I envision Uganda’s energy sector becoming more diversified and sustainable, with a substantial increase in the share of renewable energy. With continued investments and supportive policies, we can expect to see expanded solar, wind, and possibly geothermal energy projects. The integration of advanced technologies and increased public-private partnerships will drive this growth, leading to improved energy access, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

 Story By Patrick Seremba | Sources: Exclusive Interview