With the transition from Umeme to Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), Ugandans are not only witnessing a rebranding but also tangible benefits in their electricity bills. This shift promises lower tariffs, improved service delivery, and a strategic push towards making power more affordable and accessible.
For years, Ugandans have voiced concerns over high electricity costs and erratic service. Now, a new chapter is unfolding with the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) overseeing the shift in power distribution. As of March 31, Umeme handed over operations to UEDCL, marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector.
Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, chairperson of ERA, reassures consumers that this transition isn’t just a name change but a financial relief. “We have adjusted tariffs based on economic factors to make electricity more affordable,” she explained.
For the average Ugandan household, the numbers tell an encouraging story. The first 15 units of power each month will now cost Shs250 per unit, meaning Shs10,000 will buy 40 units—a significant improvement from the 30-35 units the same amount would fetch under Umeme. However, after these lifeline units are exhausted, the cost rises to Shs756.2 per unit, making mindful consumption key to maximizing savings.
Small-scale businesses and industries are also poised to benefit. Large industries, particularly during off-peak hours, will now pay Shs231.6 per unit, a reduction that could lower production costs and, in turn, the prices of goods and services. Public hospitals and street lighting will also enjoy lower rates, making essential services more affordable.
While consumers welcome these changes, some remain skeptical, wondering if service delivery will improve beyond pricing. The transition from Era to Light is about more than just rebranding; it is about proving that this shift is not an error but a bright new beginning.
With Uganda’s energy sector at a turning point, the question remains: Will UEDCL truly light the way forward?
