Gridworks to deliver Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission project in Uganda

Gridworks, in partnership with the Government of Uganda, is embarking on a major infrastructural project known as the Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission project. This initiative includes the construction of an 80km high-voltage transmission line, the establishment of two new substations, and the upgrade of an existing one. The Co-CEO of Gridworks Development Partners, Chris Flavin, recently shared insights on this transformative project during an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. Flavin elaborated on the project's financial arrangements, highlighting that it will require an investment of approximately $100 million. The funding will be sourced from development finance lenders and supplemented by an equity investment from Gridworks. The project is expected to bolster Uganda's economic growth by enhancing industrial power availability in eastern Uganda, minimizing energy losses, and supporting the evacuation of renewable energy sources such as hydro and solar power. One of the key objectives of the Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission project is to improve energy access, particularly in rural areas. By strengthening the regional grid and facilitating the evacuation of 250 megawatts of renewable energy, the project aims to drive economic development, industrialization, and energy access in the Mount Elgon region. Flavin emphasized that the project will leverage established transmission technologies to ensure efficient power distribution and grid reliability. In terms of environmental and social considerations, Flavin stressed Gridworks' commitment to sustainable practices. The company is actively engaging with local communities and adhering to environmental regulations and international standards to mitigate potential impacts on the ecosystem and society. Detailed environmental and social impact assessments will be conducted to align the project with Uganda's sustainability goals. Beyond the Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission project, Gridworks is exploring further investment opportunities in Africa. The company is already engaged in multiple projects across the continent, including the development of utility companies in Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as high-voltage transmission projects in Mozambique. Gridworks' expansive portfolio underscores its dedication to advancing energy infrastructure and driving economic prosperity in the region. The Mbale-Bulambuli-Kween transmission project represents a significant milestone in Uganda's energy sector, promising to enhance power reliability, support industrial growth, and expand energy access in underserved communities. Gridworks' strategic partnership with the Ugandan government exemplifies a collaborative approach to infrastructure development, laying the foundation for a sustainable energy future in the region.