In a significant stride towards bolstering Uganda’s renewable energy capacity, the 6.9 MW Muyembe Hydroelectric Power Plant has commenced operations. Situated on the western slopes of Mount Elgon, straddling the border between Bulambuli and Kapchorwa districts, this run-of-river facility harnesses the flow of the Mbigi and Sirimkyo rivers to generate sustainable electricity.
Project Overview
Developed under a build-own-operate framework by SM Hydro Limited, the Muyembe plant is designed to supply clean energy directly to Uganda’s national grid. The generated power is sold to the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) through a 20-year power purchase agreement, ensuring a stable and long-term contribution to the country’s energy needs.
Financial and Technical Collaboration
The project’s financial structure was bolstered by an $11 million facility loan from the East and Southern Africa Trade and Development Bank (TDB), secured through a loan guarantee provided by Power Africa and USAID via Standard Chartered Bank. This financial backing underscores the confidence of international stakeholders in Uganda’s renewable energy initiatives. citeturn0search2
On the technical front, Proess Limited served as the independent technical advisor throughout the plant’s development. Their responsibilities encompassed verifying construction costs, certifying completed works, and ensuring adherence to project timelines, thereby guaranteeing the plant’s operational readiness and efficiency. citeturn0search4
Enhancing Uganda’s Energy Landscape
The commissioning of the Muyembe Hydroelectric Power Plant marks a pivotal addition to Uganda’s renewable energy portfolio. By tapping into the hydropower potential of the eastern region, the facility not only contributes to meeting the nation’s growing electricity demand but also plays a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This transition supports Uganda’s broader goals of achieving energy sustainability and environmental conservation.
As Uganda continues to harness its abundant natural resources through projects like the Muyembe Hydroelectric Power Plant, the nation moves closer to realizing a future where clean, reliable, and affordable energy is accessible to all its citizens.
