As of 2022, Uganda's electricity consumption is characterized by a predominant reliance on low-carbon sources, particularly hydropower. Low-carbon energy, including both hydropower and biofuels, accounts for nearly all the electricity generation with hydropower alone contributing close to 5 TWh. This emphasis on clean energy is significant in mitigating the adverse effects of fossil fuel consumption, such as climate change and air pollution. However, despite this positive inclination toward sustainable energy generation, the total electricity consumption per person in Uganda is 122 kWh, which is markedly lower than the global average of 3649 kWh per person. This discrepancy implies that Uganda is generating and consuming significantly less electricity than the global benchmark, potentially affecting economic development, education, and healthcare services, which are all vital for the nation’s development and well-being.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Uganda?
There is, however, a positive trajectory in Uganda’s electricity consumption, indicating growth. The 2022 data reflects a consumption rate of 122 kWh per person, which is a slight increase from 115 kWh per person in 2021. More encouraging is the rise in low-carbon electricity generation, with recent figures indicating a generation of 118 kWh per person, up from 112 kWh per person the previous year. This gradual increase by 7 kWh overall and 6 kWh in low-carbon sources suggests a positive yet modest progression in the country’s electricity generation and consumption. While this growth is promising, continued acceleration in development is essential to meet the future needs of the population and ensure universally accessible electricity, which plays a critical role in industrialization and technological advancement.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Uganda can draw inspiration from regions that have successfully harnessed solar and wind power. For instance, China’s impressive solar and wind outputs—1117 TWh and 1090 TWh respectively—show the potential of investing in these technologies. Furthermore, countries like the United States and France demonstrate the substantial capacity of nuclear energy, generating 781 TWh and 369 TWh respectively. Given Uganda's abundant sunlight, substantial investments in solar energy would likely yield significant benefits. Additionally, starting to explore the potential of nuclear energy could provide a consistent and reliable power source, facilitating energy security and supporting Uganda’s developmental goals.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Uganda predominantly highlights a reliance on hydropower. From the early 1990s, fluctuations have been noted, including modest increments in years like 1992, 1996, and 1998, followed by more substantial increases in 2013 and 2016, each contributing 0.9 TWh. However, challenges have emerged, as seen in 2006 and 2009 when hydropower generation declined. Despite these variances, the recent rise in hydroelectric output, along with a gradual introduction of biofuels, indicates a focus on expanding clean energy options. To further enhance this trajectory, seeking to diversify into additional low-carbon sources such as solar and nuclear energy will be essential for driving future growth and ensuring energy resilience.
