EAAIF invests US$18M in 20 MW solar plant in Northwestern Uganda

UGANDA—Ninety One’s Emerging Africa & Asia Infrastructure Fund (EAAIF) has finalized the financial close for a 20 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in Uganda’s northwestern region, investing approximately US$18 million in the project. 

The investment will enable AMEA Power to develop essential infrastructure, delivering affordable and reliable energy to one of the most remote and underserved areas in Uganda.

The project addresses the region’s significant energy gap, alleviating challenges like frequent load shedding and blackouts.

Paromita Chatterjee, Director at Ninety One and fund manager for EAAIF, highlighted the project’s alignment with sustainability goals, stating, “This project underscores our commitment to sustainable development, delivering clean power to communities and driving environmental resilience.

“The electricity generated will support economic activity and growth in the West Nile region, helping to bridge the disparity with other parts of the country.” 

Aqueel Bohra, Chief Investment Officer of AMEA Power, described the initiative as a significant milestone, “This marks AMEA Power’s first project in East Africa and the beginning of a series of strategic initiatives in the region. Once operational, it will be the first and largest utility-scale grid-connected solar PV project in the West Nile region.

“By combining local insights and international expertise, we are committed to delivering a transformative project that supports Uganda’s industrial and economic development.” 

Rajesh Ramesh, Director of Ituka West Nile Uganda, the project company, expressed gratitude for the widespread support, “We deeply appreciate the essential contributions of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the Electricity Regulatory Authority, the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited, and the leadership of Madi Okollo District.

“Additionally, the dedication and hard work of our teams have been instrumental in achieving this key financial milestone, paving the way for the project’s advancement.” 

This solar plant will not only provide a sustainable energy solution for the region but also play a pivotal role in boosting industrial development and improving living standards in the West Nile sub-region.

In August, AMEA Power commenced construction on a 24 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) project in Uganda.

The US$19 million project, implemented by AMEA Power’s wholly owned subsidiary Ituka West Nile Uganda Limited, is in Ombachi village, Madi Okollo District, approximately 450 km from Kampala.

The project includes the installation of a 1×24 MVA 33/132 kV transformer substation and switchyard.

Power generated from the solar plant will be transmitted through the newly constructed Lira-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua 132 kV transmission line, operated by Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Ltd (UETCL).

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