Up-to-date information on the progress of the project was presented after a joint field meeting, where UETCL CEO Engineer Richard Matziko and Acting Managing Director of UEDCL engineer Jocelyn R. Rvabvogo assessed the implementation of measures to strengthen the power transmission network in the metropolitan area.
According to UETCL, the Maya (Buloba) substation with a voltage of 220/132/33 kV has already been commissioned. The replacement of cable lines on 132 kV mains and the reconstruction of transformer substations are ongoing. Some stages of construction require power outages for the safety of staff and residents.
The project is funded by a concessional loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in the amount of 13 billion yen (about $83.3 million). The customer is UETCL, and the contracting work is carried out by a consortium of China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) and Toyota Tsusho Corporation (TTC).
Engineer Matsiko noted that planned shutdowns create difficulties, but they are necessary to create a more powerful infrastructure. He stressed that the corporation understands the inconveniences for businesses and residents, but these measures are important to create a reliable network capable of coping with the growing electricity consumption. The project is nearing completion, and every effort is being made to complete it safely.
UETCL noted that electricity consumption in the metropolitan area is growing by 15% annually due to urbanization and industrial growth. The existing infrastructure is operating at its limit, so investments in its expansion are necessary to improve the reliability and quality of electricity supply.
The program includes the construction of new substations in Maya and Mukono, the renovation of facilities in Kawaala, Mutundwa and Bujagali, the laying of additional power lines, the replacement of wires on 132 kV mains and the installation of a mobile substation in Namungun.
The Rvabvogo engineer expressed confidence that the temporary difficulties of subscribers will lead to a long-term improvement in the quality of service. She noted that the investments will ensure the stability and quality of electricity supply, minimize network restrictions and allow the company to work more efficiently with customers. She urged consumers to be patient during the final stage of construction, as disruptions are inevitable during the modernization of the UETCL network.
She also pointed out that the upgraded network will support the UEDCL electrification initiative, designed to connect up to 300,000 new subscribers annually.
Completion of the project is projected to significantly expand the capacity of the networks, increase their resilience, reduce the likelihood of emergency shutdowns, and create infrastructure for strategic facilities, including the Buloba pumping station in the context of the development of Uganda's oil and gas industry.
UETCL and UEDCL assured of their readiness to inform the public about the progress of the project and expressed gratitude to consumers for their patience and support in the process of creating a more powerful and reliable power transmission system.
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