Gridworks’ recent Joint Development Agreement with the Government of Uganda marks a significant step forward in the country’s energy landscape. The Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission line project is not just a technical endeavor; it’s a game-changer that stands to reshape Uganda’s energy future. With nearly 80 kilometers of high-voltage lines and two new substations, this initiative aims to boost the integration of renewable energy sources, particularly hydropower and solar, into the national grid.
The project is poised to unlock up to 250 MW of renewable generation from the Mount Elgon region, including 100 MW from existing and planned hydropower plants and 150 MW from a new solar park near Bulambuli. This is a big deal for a country where only 47% of the population currently enjoys access to electricity. By improving power supply to the growing populations in Bulambuli, Kween, and the wider region, the project promises to enhance energy access, a vital component for socio-economic development.
This initiative is not just about numbers; it’s about real-world impact. The reliable power supply will directly benefit industries in the Mbale region, including a key industrial park that can now operate without the constant worry of power outages. It’s an investment that speaks volumes about the potential for industrial growth in Uganda, which has been hampered by unreliable electricity supply.
Moreover, this project serves as a catalyst for future investments in Uganda’s electricity sector. As one of the first greenfield privately financed transmission projects in the country, it sets a precedent for attracting much-needed private capital. This is a crucial move, especially considering that without Gridworks’ involvement, the Ugandan government would have likely had to resort to borrowing to finance such infrastructure. The private sector’s role in this context cannot be overstated; it’s about creating a sustainable model that alleviates the financial burden on public finances while driving forward the country’s energy agenda.
Gridworks isn’t just stopping at this project. They are also involved in other ambitious initiatives across Africa, such as the Amari Power Transmission project in Uganda and the Chimuara-Nacala Transmission Project in Mozambique. These efforts highlight a growing trend in Africa where Independent Power Transmission (IPT) projects are becoming a new asset class, akin to the well-established Independent Power Production market. This evolution could pave the way for a more robust and interconnected energy grid across the continent.
Chris Flavin, Gridworks’ Interim CEO, emphasized the importance of this project in enabling the evacuation of hundreds of MWs of renewable power to customers in eastern Uganda. It’s clear that the private sector can play a pivotal role in addressing Africa’s energy challenges, and this project is a testament to that potential.
Ruth Nankabirwa, Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the project’s alignment with Uganda’s Third National Development Plan and its critical role in driving industrialization and expanding electrification. As the country gears up for its Fourth National Development Plan, the Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission line will be a cornerstone in addressing the current bottlenecks in power evacuation on the eastern grid.
In the grand scheme of things, this project isn’t just about electricity; it’s about unlocking a future where renewable energy can thrive, industries can flourish, and households can access reliable power. It’s a bold step towards a sustainable energy future for Uganda, and it sets a powerful example for other nations in Africa to follow. The conversation around energy transition is evolving, and with initiatives like this, it’s clear that the private sector can be a formidable ally in the quest for a cleaner, more reliable energy landscape.
