Uganda is making strides towards achieving universal electricity access by 2040, with the introduction of a groundbreaking financial project aimed at improving access to off-grid solar products in underserved refugee communities and their host districts.
Despite the country’s current 57% reach and access to electricity through both on-grid and off-grid connections, a significant portion of the population still lacks access to electricity. This is primarily due to the high cost of grid connections and elevated power tariffs, exacerbated by instability in power supply across many regions.
Okasai Opolot, the State Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, emphasized the need to address these challenges, stating that high power tariffs and unstable power in most parts of the country continue to hinder progress towards achieving universal electricity access.
In response to these obstacles, the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) and the Government of the Netherlands have launched a demand-side, result-based financial project. This initiative aims to bridge the affordability gap for improved off-grid solar products, with a focus on marginalized refugee communities and their host districts.
“As we work towards closing the electricity access gap, initiatives like this demand-side financial project play a crucial role in promoting the affordability of off-grid solar products,” said Asiimwe Stephen, Executive Director of PSFU.
Humphrey Nzeyi, Chairman of PSFU, expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact, highlighting that by enhancing access to off-grid solar solutions, they are not only providing reliable electricity to underserved communities but also contributing to sustainable development and economic empowerment.
The collaboration between the Private Sector Foundation Uganda and the Government of the Netherlands underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in driving inclusive growth and addressing development challenges.
With the launch of this initiative, Uganda is taking a significant step towards ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy sources. This move not only unlocks opportunities for social and economic advancement across the country but also sets a positive example for other nations striving for universal electricity access.
