The Karuma Hydropower Plant in Uganda, with a total capacity of 600 MW, has now added 200 MW to the national grid, contributing to more reliable and affordable electricity supply for homes and industries. Located along the River Nile in Kiryandongo District, the project is 99% complete, with full commissioning planned for August next year. Interim electricity is being supplied at 0.01 US cents per kWh, with the full generation tariff of 4.8 US cents per kWh to take effect upon handover.

The project, financed 85% by the Export-Import Bank of China and 15% by the Ugandan government, has faced delays of 53 months due to technical and civil works challenges, including managing floating debris, redesigns, and infrastructure adjustments. Solutions such as floating booms, trash cleaning equipment, and intake screens have been implemented to ensure uninterrupted operation.

Once fully operational, Karuma will increase Uganda’s national generation capacity from 1,402 MW to 2,000 MW, support the goal of lowering power tariffs, and improve access to electricity, which currently stands at 57% nationally, combining on-grid and off-grid connections. The plant also forms part of Uganda’s broader investment in capital-intensive energy projects aimed at sustainable and affordable power generation.