Uganda's Electricity Exports Surge 34% to Shs267 Billion Amid Surplus Power Boom

Uganda’s electricity sector has seen impressive growth, with export revenues climbing 34 percent to $72 million (Shs267 billion) over the 12 months from March 2025 to February 2026. This marks a jump from $48 million (Shs177 billion) in the prior year, according to the Bank of Uganda.

Exports totaled 735,826 MWh, up from 490,235 MWh, with surplus power directed to neighbors including Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako, CEO of the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), emphasized the goal of delivering reliable, cost-effective power to support development and expand access in rural and peri-urban areas.

The 600MW Karuma Hydropower dam has elevated Uganda’s installed capacity to 2,048 MW, creating a 1,063 MW surplus. This competitive edge, including low off-peak industrial tariffs, positions Uganda as a regional manufacturing hub.

Uganda is preparing to join the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), enabling power trading as a commodity. Waako noted that this will enhance efficiency, cut costs, and promote renewable integration, boosting cross-border trade.

Experts like Eng. George Mutetweka of Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL) view electricity as a tradable asset driving investments and revenue for infrastructure. Despite this, national electrification stands at 51.5 percent, with rural access at 42.4 percent, requiring accelerated connections for universal access by 2030.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)