Electricity in Uganda in 2022

As of 2022, Uganda's electricity consumption is significantly lower than the global average, which stands at 432 watts per person. The country generated a total of just over 5 TWh of low-carbon electricity, with almost all of this coming from hydropower (about 4.8 TWh), supplemented by a very small contribution from biofuels (roughly 0.1 TWh). Fossil fuels contribute close to none of Uganda's electricity, a commendably green energy profile. However, this still translates to low average electricity consumption per person, leading to limited industrial growth, lower living standards, and restricted access to modern amenities for a large portion of the population.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Uganda can draw lessons from other countries that have successfully diversified their energy portfolios. For example, Brazil and India have harnessed substantial amounts of wind power (96 TWh and 82 TWh, respectively), which Uganda could emulate given its similar geographic potential for wind energy. On the solar front, India and Japan have demonstrated significant solar generation (113 TWh and 97 TWh, respectively). Additionally, nuclear power, which is highly scalable and stable, could be a transformative option for Uganda. Countries like France and South Korea have commanded significant shares of their electricity from nuclear sources (336 TWh and 180 TWh, respectively), showcasing the potential for reliable and clean energy through nuclear means.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity generation in Uganda shows a varying but predominantly upward trend in hydropower. Starting in the early 1990s, slight increments were made with a 0.2 TWh increase in 1992. The early 2000s witnessed modest gains of 0.3 TWh in 2000 and smaller increments in subsequent years. A notable decline occurred in 2006 with a reduction of 0.7 TWh, but recovery followed, particularly in 2012 with a substantial 0.9 TWh increase. The last decade has seen steady growth, including a 0.6 TWh rise in 2021. These figures highlight Uganda's gradual yet consistent efforts to enhance its hydropower capacity, albeit with occasional setbacks.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources