Uganda’s Nyagak III Hydroelectric Power Station Begins Operations, Boosting National Energy Supply

Uganda’s Nyagak III Hydroelectric Power Station, a 6.6-megawatt facility located in Zombo District, has officially commenced operations, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector. The plant, which began construction in 2017, was inaugurated on August 1, 2025, after overcoming several challenges that delayed its completion.

The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Energy Minister Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa, who announced that the plant is now synchronized with the national grid and under the management of the Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL). She emphasized that the power generated will be transmitted to the Nebbi substation and distributed nationwide, contributing to the government’s goal of achieving 100% electricity access by 2040.

Developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP), the Nyagak III project is expected to generate over 36 gigawatt-hours (GWh) annually, enough to power approximately 8,500 households in the West Nile region, including districts such as Arua, Nebbi, and Zombo. This addition to the national grid is anticipated to alleviate the region’s longstanding power shortages and support economic development.
The $20 million project comprises two 3.3-megawatt Horizontal Francis turbines. The government holds a 30% stake through the Ministry of Energy and UEGCL, while a private consortium—Hydromax Ltd, Dott Services, and Tata Consulting Engineers—owns the remaining 70%. The consortium is set to operate the plant for 20 years before transferring it to the government.

Despite initial setbacks, including funding challenges and environmental concerns, the project has now been completed. Former Energy Minister Simon D’Ujanga, who initiated feasibility studies for Nyagak I and III in the 1990s, described the commissioning as a transformative milestone. He expressed optimism that the addition of 6.6 megawatts would eliminate power outages in the West Nile region and attract investors to industrial parks, leveraging the region’s 90-megawatt capacity.

Local leaders have expressed concerns over delayed corporate social responsibility (CSR) projects, such as roads, a health center, and school blocks. In response, Minister Nankabirwa outlined ongoing works, including the completion of four boreholes, a footbridge, and progress on a Health Centre III and classroom blocks. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the community and urged local residents to continue supporting government initiatives.
The successful commissioning of Nyagak III underscores Uganda’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy infrastructure and ensuring a stable power supply to underserved regions.

The plant’s operation is expected to enhance energy reliability, support economic growth, and improve the quality of life for residents in the West Nile sub-region.