Shift Towards Solar Energy in Uganda
In recent years, many Ugandan villages have transitioned from traditional kerosene lamps, locally known as tadooba, to solar-powered lighting systems. This change is largely driven by the affordability of solar energy compared to hydroelectric power, which often entails high connectivity costs and monthly bills.
National Statistics on Energy Usage
The National Population and Housing Census Report of 2024 indicates a significant shift towards clean energy across the country. Solar energy has become the leading source of household lighting, accounting for 28.1% of usage, while LPG lamps are the least used at just 2.4%. This marks a considerable change from 2014, when 52% of households relied on tadooba and about 20% used electricity.
Solar power is the energy of the future—clean, sustainable, and empowering communities today.
Kemigisa Rosette
Government Efforts and Electrification
Government initiatives aimed at rural electrification have increased electricity coverage in both rural and urban areas. The 2014 census reported that electricity usage for lighting in rural areas rose from 3% in 2002 to 10% in 2014, reaching 25.3% by 2024. Overall, the use of clean energy for lighting now stands at 75%, representing approximately 8,072,981 households nationwide.
Challenges and Community Responses
Despite government efforts, many communities still face challenges with high connection fees and installation costs associated with hydroelectric power. For instance, in Ntoroko District, five out of ten sub-counties remain without electricity connections. Even in areas with access, many families are not connected due to the prohibitive costs. This has led residents to turn to solar energy as a more affordable and accessible alternative.
Individuals like Ms. Olivia Katusabe, a shop owner in Fort Portal City, have noted that most of her clients purchasing solar systems come from villages. The systems, ranging from Shs200,000 to Shs5 million, are primarily used for home lighting. The affordability and practicality of solar energy have made it a preferred choice for many, especially in areas where extending the national grid is not feasible.
