COP28: Uganda signs 105MW solar energy plant deal

Summary:

• Uganda advances its renewable energy goals by signing a deal at COP28 for a 150MW solar plant with Masdar, marking progress toward its 2050 target of 100% renewable energy.

Uganda has taken a significant step towards meeting its renewable energy goals by signing a Memorandum of Understanding at COP28 in Dubai. The agreement with Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) entails the construction of a 150MW solar energy plant in the eastern part of Uganda, forming part of a larger 1GW collaboration. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja officiated the event, attended by key figures such as Energy Minister Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister for Regional Cooperation Henry Okello Oryem, and Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zaake Kibeedi.

The Prime Minister highlighted the initiative’s impact on addressing rising electricity demand, enhancing accessibility, and creating job opportunities. Emphasizing grid stability, Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa stressed the need for studies to ensure seamless integration without disrupting the existing grid. Masdar affirmed its commitment to funding these studies, aiming to bring in technically proficient companies by April 2024 The Black Examiner has learned.

Building on a prior Memorandum of Understanding from August 2022, Uganda and Masdar committed to developing greenfield renewable energy projects totaling 1GW. This aligns with Uganda’s strategy to leverage abundant renewable resources for sustainable industrialization. The announced project, situated in the Kween district, includes the construction of a transmission line from Mbale to Bulambuli, connecting to the national grid.

Uganda has set a 2050 target for achieving 100% renewable energy. A recent study by the World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and partners estimated a need for over $390 billion to realize this goal. To meet the 2050 target, Uganda aims for 90% of its energy to come from solar sources, with the remainder from sources like hydrogen. This shift requires significant upfront investment but is crucial for reducing reliance on biomass and improving the overall energy mix.