Uganda: Karuma hydroelectric power station commissioned
A major project for energy development
The 600 MW Karuma hydropower plant has officially come on stream, marking a milestone in Uganda’s energy development. The announcement was made on 26 September 2024 by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), which oversees Uganda’s entire power sector. The project is a key pillar of the country’s Vision 2040 development plan, aimed at transforming the energy sector to support economic and social growth.
A key partnership with China under the Belt and Road Initiative
The Karuma project, which is also a symbol of Sino-Ugandan cooperation, was carried out under the China-led Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). ERA stressed that this underground plant, the first of its kind in the region, is expected to contribute to a significant reduction in electricity generation costs, a crucial issue for improving access to affordable energy.
Acknowledgments and involvement of partners
The Regulatory Authority expressed its gratitude to the Government of Uganda, China EXIM Bank, Sino-Hydro Uganda Limited, and various policy makers who made this ambitious project possible. The plant, which began construction in December 2013 at a cost of $1.7 billion, is now the largest power generation facility in the country.
Significant increase in energy capacity
With the commissioning of the Karuma power plant, Uganda’s energy capacity is expected to reach approximately 2,000 MW. This project reinforces the country’s ambitions to become a key player in the region in terms of energy production and distribution, while contributing to the improvement of the living conditions of its population.
Conclusion
The commissioning of the Karuma hydropower plant is a major step forward for Uganda, both in terms of energy and socio-economics. By reducing electricity production costs and increasing national capacity, this project strengthens the country’s position in the region while promoting more inclusive and sustainable development.
