Electricity in Uganda in 2021

From the data presented, the total low-carbon electricity generation in Uganda stands at 4.27 TWh for 2021, out of which hydropower makes up roughly 93%. This shows the country's reliance on hydropower as its primary source of low-carbon electricity. Comparatively, the per capita energy consumption is considerably lower than the global average of 410 watts per person, indicating the need for vast improvements in the country's energy sector. These low levels of electricity generation contribute to a range of challenges, including limited access to basic electrical amenities, hindered industrial development, and a lower standard of living.

Suggestions

To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Uganda can draw insights from multiple countries that have successfully accessed diverse sources of low-carbon energy. Notably, Brazil's implementation of wind power, producing 94 TWh, and India's solar energy sector, generating 120 TWh, showcase successful models Uganda could emulate. Both of these countries, similar to Uganda, face challenges such as high population growth and varying geographic conditions, yet have managed robust expansions in their respective clean energy sectors. It is, therefore, viable for Uganda to explore the potential of wind and solar energy to supplement their dependency on hydropower.

History

Historically, the development of low-carbon electricity in Uganda was consistently driven by hydropower, with incremental increases in production seen throughout the 1990s and into the 2000s. In 1992, Uganda had a modest start with 0.2 TWh generated from hydroenergy. However, the nation faced a noteworthy decline in 2006 when production dropped by 0.7 TWh. Thankfully, Uganda was able to recover within a year, achieving steady growth in hydropower generation that peaked in 2016 with an increase of 0.9 TWh. Biofuels started contributing in 2018, but it seems to have fluctuated due to a drop in 2019. It is also important to note that 2021 experienced a slight dip in hydropower production. This reiterates the urgency of diversifying Uganda's clean energy sources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources