In 2022, Uganda's electricity consumption was characterized by a significant reliance on low-carbon sources, with hydropower taking the lead. Low-carbon electricity generation amounted to 5.6 TWh, with hydropower contributing almost 5 TWh of this total, leaving a small remainder for other low-carbon sources. Fossil energy sources contributed very little, resulting in a predominantly clean energy mix. However, the per capita electricity consumption was only 122 kWh, an extremely low figure when compared to the global average of 3736 kWh/person. Such low electricity generation levels could limit economic growth, educational advancements, and healthcare services, which all depend on reliable energy access.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and Enerdata. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Uganda?
In examining the changes in Uganda's electricity consumption, it becomes clear that there is a positive trend, albeit modest. In 2022, the electricity consumption per person increased to 122 kWh, up from 115 kWh in 2021. This is an increase of 7 kWh/person. Low-carbon electricity, too, saw an increase from 112 kWh/person in 2021 to 118 kWh/person in 2022, a change of 6 kWh/person. Although these increments are small, they indicate a rising trajectory in Uganda's adoption of low-carbon sources, reflecting a positive shift towards a more sustainable electricity generation pathway.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Uganda could draw inspiration from successful regions around the globe. Solar and wind energy show immense potential for development. For example, the People's Republic of China has made great strides with its solar energy generation amounting to 1170 TWh and wind at 1130 TWh. These examples demonstrate the viability and potential scalability of these technologies, which could be highly beneficial for Uganda given its geographical location. Additionally, nuclear energy has proven to be an effective low-carbon power source in countries like the United States and France, which generate 785 TWh and 373 TWh, respectively. By deploying a mix of solar and, where feasible, nuclear technologies, Uganda has the potential to significantly increase its low-carbon electricity generation.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Uganda shows a pattern of gradual development, primarily driven by hydroelectric projects. In the early 1990s and 2000s, hydroelectric generation saw small but consistent increments, including increases of 0.2 TWh in 1992 and 0.3 TWh in 2000. However, there were also fluctuations, such as a decline of 0.7 TWh in 2006. Moving into the 2010s, hydro growth was more consistent, peaking with a 0.9 TWh increase in 2012. Despite occasional setbacks, these additions showcase a long-term commitment to expanding hydro capacity. The more recent increases in 2021 and 2022—0.6 TWh and 0.3 TWh, respectively—highlight the continuing dedication to enhancing low-carbon energy output, embodying a positive trajectory for Uganda's electricity landscape.
