UETCL Powers Progress: Commissioning the Gulu-Agago Transmission Project

Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) has reached a significant milestone in its mission to enhance the country’s energy infrastructure. On 21st February 2024, Hon. Okaasai Sidronius Opolot, Minister of State for Energy, officially commissioned the 83km 132kV Gulu-Agago Transmission Project at the Agago Substation in Pader District. This project, a vital component of Uganda’s energy strategy, promises to revolutionize power distribution in the region. The commissioning of the Gulu-Agago Transmission Line is not merely a routine event but a strategic move aligned with Uganda’s Energy Policy 2023 and the Energy Development Programme of the National Development Plan (NDP), Phase–III. Minister Opolot emphasized that this initiative aims to ensure efficient power evacuation and consumption, addressing the nation’s growing energy needs. The significance of this project extends beyond its technical aspects. By completing the Achwa-Gulu-Agago 132kV transmission line on 18th November 2023, UETCL has paved the way for the evacuation of power from the Agago/Achwa 83MW Hydropower Plant. This development is a crucial step in the government’s plan to extend power to the West Nile region through the Olwiyo – Nebbi – Arua Transmission Line, enhancing connectivity and accessibility to electricity in underserved areas. Joshua Karamagi, CEO of UETCL, highlighted the financial implications of the project, stating that the commissioning will save the Government of Uganda USD 2.5 million per month in energy costs. This cost-saving measure directly benefits the people of Gulu, Omoro, and Pader Districts by ensuring a reliable and stable power supply. The Gulu-Agago Transmission Project, initiated in September 2021, involved comprehensive planning and execution. Divided into two lots, the project included the construction of substation extensions and the installation of double-circuit transmission lines. Larsen & Toubro Limited and KEC International Limited played instrumental roles in completing these tasks within a remarkable 18-month timeframe. Mr. Kwame Ejalu Ejuku, Chairman of the Board of Directors at UETCL, emphasized that the successful completion of the Gulu-Agago project sets the stage for future endeavors. With a focus on ongoing system expansion and network upgrade projects, UETCL aims to meet Uganda’s growing energy demands and generation capacity, in line with the envisaged 52,000 MW by 2040. The financing of EUR 40,000,000 from the German Government through Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) exemplifies international collaboration in Uganda’s energy sector. This funding covered the cost of the transmission line and associated substations, with the Government of Uganda financing supervision, land acquisition, and Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) Implementation costs. UETCL remains committed to fulfilling its mandate as the Transmission System Operator, ensuring the supply of reliable and quality power within the country and the region. Operating the High Voltage Transmission Grid (HVTG) above 33kV, UETCL facilitates the bulk purchase of electricity from power generators and its sale to power distributors, contributing to the nation’s energy security. In conclusion, the commissioning of the Gulu-Agago Transmission Project marks a significant achievement for UETCL and Uganda’s energy sector as a whole. This project not only addresses immediate energy needs but also sets the stage for future growth and development, ensuring a brighter and more electrified future for the nation.