As the world celebrates World Environment Day 2025 under the theme “Unite Against Plastic Pollution,” the Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL) reaffirms its commitment to powering Uganda responsibly delivering clean energy while safeguarding the environment and supporting national development.
With an installed capacity of 1,213 megawatts, UEGCL contributes nearly half of Uganda’s electricity supply. Aligned with Uganda Vision 2040, which aims to expand national generation to 52,000 megawatts, UEGCL is investing in a diversified energy mix that includes hydropower, solar, and natural gas.
The company’s Isimba Hydropower Plant alone produces over 1,074 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually offsetting more than 1,000 metric tonnes of carbon emissions and supporting Uganda’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to reduce greenhouse gases by 24.7% by 2030. This implies Karuma Hydropower Plant contribution provides triple benefit.
UEGCL’s environmental efforts go beyond energy. Around Isimba, over 40,000 indigenous trees have been planted across 100 hectares, contributing to the national goal of 40 million trees annually. The company also maintains ecological water flows and implements Water Source Protection Plans to support both biodiversity and community livelihoods.
In support of the National Strategy for Management of Plastic Pollution (2023–2028), UEGCL promotes the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and implements strong waste segregation practices in line with ISO 14001 standards.
Innovation remains central to UEGCL’s sustainability journey. The company is pioneering Uganda’s first 10-megawatt floating solar plant on the Isimba reservoir, and is converting the Namanve Thermal Power Plant to run on cleaner natural gas, reducing emissions and boosting energy resilience.
UEGCL also champions inclusive development, having electrified over 40 villages in Kayunga and Kamuli districts and invested UGX 11 billion in health, education, and livelihood projects. These efforts support Uganda’s goal of universal electricity access by 2040.
All of UEGCL’s initiatives are anchored in a strong Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, with continuous staff capacity-building and sustainability-driven targets. By 2030, UEGCL aims to expand its market share to 67% through increased installed capacity.
As Uganda advances toward a greener and more resilient future, UEGCL stands as a national leader in sustainable energy. To commemorate World Environment Day, the company calls on all Ugandans to act against plastic pollution and embrace sustainability as the foundation of national progress.
By Eng. Dr. Mary Akurut, Chief Safety, Health, Environment & Quality (SHEQ) Officer. Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited