Unlocking Utilities of the Future in Sub-Saharan Africa: An Optimization Analysis of Grid Integration Opportunities in Uganda

Abstract

Despite significant electrification advances, around one billion people don't have access to basic electricity. In Uganda, 78% of the population is yet to be connected to electricity. This study uses publicly available data to compare the cost of different technology approaches and develops a least-cost electrification pathway for Uganda to meet its energy targets. It further explores how optimized electrification strategies may vary according to different targets of service level, reliability, and pace of access to highlight the tradeoffs of electrification approaches. The analysis shows that distributed renewable energy solutions (like mini-grid and standalone solar) have high potential for electrifying areas with lower grid density such as Northern Uganda. These findings leveling the playing field such as providing adequate finance to enable Uganda to capture the benefit from the expansion of DRE technologies.