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Uganda

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Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and the Government of the Netherlands have unveiled a demand-side, result-based financial project. This initiative aims to bridge the affordability gap for improved off-grid solar products, particularly targeting marginalized refugee communities and their host districts.
Through this program, farmers can procure irrigation equipment via a matching grant scheme. Under this scheme, farmers contribute 25% of the cost of solar-powered machines, with the government covering the remaining 75%. Solar-powered systems, mounted on carts, can irrigate up to 2.5 acres per day.
Key among the points of collaboration is that ERA with the aid of GIZ will develop a tailor-made framework that seeks to de-risk and reduce the cost of developing mini grids and distributed generation facilities in areas of high demand across the country.
Uganda’s annual demand for biomass energy exceeds its supply, leading to increased costs and environmental concerns. The solar-powered stoves are equipped with large electric pots and boilers, capable of serving institutions ranging from 100 to 1,000 students. The system also includes a 1,000-litre solar water heater and battery backup.
high upfront costs and limited availability of charging infrastructure are two significant challenges that hinder the widespread adoption of electric vehicles in Uganda. Efforts are being made to promote EV adoption in Uganda by establishing charging stations in key urban centers and along major highways.
The old practice of using electricity to extract ground water and surface water (streams, rivers, lakes and reservoirs) has been ditched due to its high costs of power supply. The shift to solar-powered water pumping is regarded by the World Bank as “technologically proven to be operationally, financially, and environmentally sustainable”.
The Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, together with officials from the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), have faced surprisingly challenging questions about the energy sector’s performance from secondary school students, showcasing their keen interest and deep understanding of the sector.
MTN Uganda upgraded 3,241 cell sites (92% of its total sites) to solar and lithium-ion battery storage as the primary power source, while also connecting 2,329 sites (67% of total sites) to grid, moving away from diesel generators, reducing reliance on backup diesel generators.
The project comprises four distinct systems, varying in size: Kasanzi PS- 2.7Kwp, Maghoma PS- 2.16Kwp, Mbata Primary School- 2.70Kwp, and Buhuhira HC IV- 3.24Kwp. All systems share a battery storage size of 10.2kWh and an inverter capacity of 3.5kW, with roof-mounted panels.
The Ugandan government is setting up solar energy projects to provide water and electricity to, especially, rural communities. Last week, the country’s Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department launched the construction of a $2.5 million solar water supply in Rubanda West.

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