Uganda Government commissions ORIO Mini Grid to boost electrification

Kampala, Uganda – The Ugandan government has launched a major project aimed at boosting rural electrification in the western part of the country.

The ORIO mini hydropower project, which was officially launched on Saturday, involves the construction of nine mini hydropower plants with a combined capacity of 6.7 megawatts.

The project, which is expected to be completed within 24 months, will also include the construction of a 288-kilometre local distribution network.

According to officials, the project will connect over 71,000 households and 2,300 small and medium-sized enterprises to electricity, transforming the lives of thousands of people in rural western Uganda.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, said the project was a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to increase access to electricity.

“Electricity is a fundamental pillar of economic growth, and this project will not only light homes but also ignite hospitals, enable farmers to process their produce efficiently, and help small businesses thrive,” Mr Tayebwa said.

The project has received funding from the Netherlands government, with a grant of €13.1 million (approximately UGX 50 billion) provided through the ORIO Infrastructure Fund.

The Ugandan government has committed to covering the remaining costs of the project.

The project is being implemented by the Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company (UECCC), in partnership with international companies, including HNAC Technology Co. Ltd from China and Ossberger GmbH from Germany.

The launch of the project was attended by local and national leaders, as well as development partners.

The Ugandan government has set a target of increasing access to electricity to 60% of the population by 2027, up from the current 28%.