Uganda’s energy sector is defined by a strong commitment to a renewable-led growth strategy, as outlined in the National Energy Policy 2023. The country has successfully increased its generation capacity from 900 MW in 2015 to over 1,715 MW in 2023, with a remarkable 99% of this capacity coming from renewable sources. As of 2023, large hydroelectric power was the backbone of the system, contributing roughly 91% of generation, while biofuels (6.2%) and solar/wind installations (1.5%) supported the nation's efforts to diversify its energy mix and enhance grid stability.

Despite this green generation profile, energy poverty remains a significant hurdle. While national electricity penetration grew to reach 51.5% of households in 2023 from 18.5% in 2015, Uganda ranks 44th on the Africa Infrastructure Development Index (AIDI) for electricity development, indicating a vast need for grid expansion. To bridge this gap, the government is focusing on Vision 2040 aspirations, investing in new power plants, exploring geothermal potential, and expanding transmission networks. These initiatives, supported by policies like the Electricity Connections Policy (2018), aim to facilitate a just energy transition while fostering industrialization and climate resilience.

Source: Uganda Country Strategy Paper 2022-2026, and AEP data

Uganda’s electricity sector is governed by both public and private sector institutions:

• Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development(Please click here for more)
• The Electricity Regulatory Authority (Please click here for more)
• Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited. (Please click here for more)
• Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (Please click here for more)
• Nine electricity distribution companies. (Please click here for more)

• Apart from the government owned large hydropower plants;

Uganda also has 32 active independent power producers (IPPs). Please click here for more information;

LAWS

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POLICIES

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REGULATIONS AND CODES

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GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS

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