Government secures Shs 30 billion for solar

In a move to increase access to off grid solar electricity in Uganda to top of the current hydro electricity the country produces, government has secured $ 8.5 million ( Shs30.8 billion) from the World Bank to boost the supply of solar power in the country.

According to James Byagaba, the vice chairman of Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company (UECCC), the implementing body, the money is going to be put in banks so that it can be borrowed by companies that deal in solar products.

Despite the abundance of solar energy in Uganda, its use as electricity and a heat source is still limited due to the mentality of Ugandans that solar is for the rich people.

In return solar system providers are expected to popularise their service attract more Ugandans on using solar as a

source of energy.

"Five financial institutions including Trust Bank, Post Bank, Centenary Bank, Financial trust bank have been selected to participate in managing the facility," said Specioza Kimera Ndagire the managing director of UECCC.

Currently Ugandans choose their lighting sources based on  affordability, availability and convenience.