The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has officially launched a massive Shs2.3 trillion initiative to provide free electricity connections to over 900,000 households and businesses nationwide. Funded by the World Bank, this project is a significant step toward Uganda’s ambitious goal of achieving universal electricity access by 2030.
Expanding Access to Underserved Communities
Currently, only about 60% of Ugandan households have electricity access, leaving millions without power, especially in rural areas. The new Electricity Access Scale-up Project (EASP) aims to close this gap by offering free connections, boosting economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing social services across the country.
Dual-Component Implementation Strategy
The project is divided into two major components to ensure effective implementation and financial accountability:
- Results-Based Financing (RBF) Agreement: UEDCL will initially fund 508,035 new connections, with reimbursement from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) following verification. This incentivizes quick rollout while maintaining oversight.
- Materials Provision Agreement: MEMD will supply critical materials such as poles, conductors, and meters for 388,400 additional connections. UEDCL will be compensated for labor and transport costs once the connections are verified.
Digitization and Workforce Expansion
To streamline the process and reduce fraud, the application system has been fully digitized, making it easier for Ugandans to apply for connections online.
Additionally, UEDCL is recruiting 400 new staff members to address the backlog and meet the target of connecting 400,000 customers annually, accelerating the nation’s electrification pace.