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The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, has announced the commencement of the site assessment for Uganda’s ambitious nuclear power project in Buyende.
The 8,400 MW nuclear plant is part of Uganda's energy strategy, designed to meet the country’s growing electricity demand.
The assessment is a key step towards Uganda's goal of achieving 52,481 MW of energy capacity by 2040, with 24,000 MW expected to come from nuclear power.
A Step Toward Uganda’s Clean Energy Future
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The site evaluation contract for the Buyende Nuclear Power Plant was signed between the Ugandan government and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP), a subsidiary of the Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), alongside KEPCO E&C, the South Korean power plant design and engineering company.
Minister Nankabirwa expressed her commitment to Uganda’s clean, reliable energy future, stating that nuclear power is not just an option but a necessity for the country.
She also acknowledged the contributions of the technical teams involved in the project, including KHNP, KEPCO E&C, and Dohwa.
"The studies began in 2016, and land acquisition is already underway, marking a significant move toward a clean energy future for Uganda," Minister Nankabirwa remarked.
The project is expected to play a key role in addressing the country's growing energy demands.
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Uganda’s Growing Energy Demand
Uganda’s increasing power consumption has become a cause for concern. In April this year, Umeme Ltd officially handed over power distribution to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), following the expiration of its 30-year concession.
Umeme’s CEO, Selestino Babungi, warned that Uganda could face a power deficit within three years if energy production does not keep pace with demand.
“My biggest worry now is that with the rate at which power is being demanded, if we don't do anything, we shall run out of power in just three years,” Babungi said
To counter this, Uganda has launched several energy generation projects, such as the 600 MW Karuma Hydropower Project, commissioned in September 2024.
However, experts have emphasised that more large-capacity projects and improvements in transmission infrastructure are crucial. The new nuclear power plant in Buyende is expected to significantly contribute to Uganda's energy generation, ensuring the country meets its electricity needs in the coming decades.
In addition to nuclear power, the Ugandan government is moving forward with projects like the 400 MW Kiba Hydropower Plant, further supporting the country’s strategy to diversify its energy sources and secure a sustainable energy future for its growing population.