Project Description

Project Overview

EA is spearheading a landmark public–private partnership in Uganda to deploy 1 GW of solar capacity integrated with large-scale battery energy storage. The program begins with a 100 MWₚ solar farm paired with a 250 MWh BESS, serving as Phase 1 of the national rollout. This initiative has been formally approved at the Presidential level, with a gazetted policy directive confirming government support.

Status & Timeline

The project is now in the under development stage, with feasibility completed in 2024. EPC contract authorization is scheduled for 2025, followed by construction in the same year. The 100 MW pilot plant is expected to reach COD by 2026, while the remaining capacity will be delivered in phases through 2030.

Technical Details

This pioneering installation will deploy U.S.-made graphene and selenium-enhanced solar modules alongside NASA-grade nickel-hydrogen battery systems. The design is optimized for equatorial conditions, ensuring high solar yield even in extreme heat. The modular battery units and centralized smart controls will provide firm grid stability, enabling the plant to deliver 100 MW of solar power during the day and supply evening peak demand from the 250 MWh battery system. An initial tariff has been set at $0.08/kWh, pending regulator confirmation.

Partners

This flagship initiative is a coordinated effort between multiple stakeholders:

  • Government of Uganda – Host and off-taker (via UETCL PPA)

  • EXIM Bank USA – Taking ~20% equity and arranging debt financing

  • ATIDI – Providing political risk insurance

  • DFC and MIGA – Supporting investment guarantees under discussion

  • Energy America – Acting as EPC contractor with strong local workforce participation

Description

The project represents Uganda’s largest solar farm and its first grid-scale battery storage facility. It directly supports Vision 2040 and the National Energy Policy goals for universal access, while also strengthening the U.S.–Uganda energy partnership. Beyond adding renewable capacity, the project will stabilize Uganda’s grid, offset reliance on thermal generation, and showcase NASA-derived resilient technologies adapted for African climates.

Verification

The project has formal government approval, verified through Uganda’s official Gazette and a Ministerial directive. A Power Purchase Agreement with UETCL is secured, with full Presidential backing. Progress is being publicly reported, including the Ministry of Energy’s announcement on August 12, 2025, confirming the project’s transition from planning to execution.