Uganda: Green light for solar energy + battery storage project

The government directive marks the start of Phase I in a national programme to deploy more than 1GW of solar-plus-storage capacity

The Government of Uganda has issued a Gazetted Policy Direction authorising the development of a 100-megawatt-peak (MWp) solar PV plant with 250 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery energy storage in Kapeeka Sub-County, Nakaseke District.

The project will be delivered by US-based Energy America, with its East Africa subsidiary, EA Astrovolt, leading development and execution.

Issued under Section 16 of the Electricity Act, the directive marks the start of Phase I in a national programme to deploy more than 1GW of solar-plus-storage capacity.

According to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the initiative aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the National Energy Policy 2023, which aim to provide universal access to affordable, reliable electricity.

“This Policy Direction represents a bold step toward realising our Vision 2040. By partnering with Energy America and EA Astrovolt, Uganda will harness world-class clean energy technology, foster local employment and accelerate the transition to a modern, resilient electricity system,” said Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development.

Technology to be used for solar, battery plant in Uganda

The plant will use high-efficiency solar modules and utility-scale battery systems engineered for tropical climates. The technology is designed for grid stabilisation, off-peak power delivery and resilience to extreme weather, said Energy America.

EA Astrovolt will conduct feasibility studies, with the Electricity Regulatory Authority to determine the tariff. A Power Purchase Agreement will also be negotiated with the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Ltd.

Furthering US-Uganda cooperation

The project expands bilateral economic and energy cooperation between the US and Uganda, building on initiatives such as Power Africa and the US-Africa Clean Energy Finance facility.

Energy America said its engineering, procurement and construction arm, Ganymede Utilities, will manage site works and commissioning, while its technology division, Centauri, will provide advanced solar and battery designs.

Phase I in Nakaseke is intended to serve as a foundation for more than 1GW of renewable capacity nationwide, with commitments to job creation, technology transfer, local supply chain development and community engagement.

Cover photo:  A village in Uganda