Uganda's 2,000 MW nuclear power plant will reduce power shortages

 

The ministry of energy and Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company Limited are now in agreement after a memorandum of understanding to construct the long awaited 9 billion dollar nuclear power plant in Uganda was signed. 2,000 Mega Watts are to be generated following installation in Buyende District.

The long awaited nuclear power plant to be constructed in Buyende district now seems likely after a memorandum of understanding between the ministry of energy and mineral development, plus South Korean company – KHNP, a subsidiary of KEPCO was signed.

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Uganda to start nuclear power generation 

“The nuclear project comes at a critical time when nations are dealing with how to ensure energy security for social economic development. Uganda has abundant power resources distributed in different parts of the country but there is a need for more partnerships to explore the new technologies in the sector,” President Museveni said.

According to data from the ministry of energy, the $9 billion project will generate 2,000 MW, an improvement from the 1,200 MW produced from current installations. Speaking at the African Nuclear Business Platform in Kampala, President Museveni asserted how nuclear power will provide a reliable and sustainable power supply to boost social-economic development at a time when countries are dealing with energy poverty.

Chelsea Gunter, from GNE Advisory and a legal counsel on international nuclear matters believes the move to integrate nuclear into the country’s energy mix is a robust move Uganda should embark on to diversify electricity generation.

The State Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Sindronius Opolot, says that at least 20 Ugandans graduated in the nuclear energy sector from countries such as the UK, South Korea, Russia and China. He further notes that the government is to set up a Centre

of nuclear excellence at Soroti University to train more Ugandans in the nuclear sector.
Uganda is experiencing an ever-increasing population, economic growth, and rising social needs that require the sustainable development of energy resources. According to the ministry of Energy, the power from nuclear power projects is anticipated to be added to the national grid by 2031.