AfrElec: Uganda to invest $9bn in 2,000-MW nuclear power plant

Uganda is set to invest a staggering $9bn in a 2,000-MW nuclear power plant (NPP), a project that will be implemented by Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Company (KHNP), a state-owned company.

This comes after the East African nation signed a memorandum of understanding with KHNP for the construction of the plant in Buyende District, eastern Uganda. The plant is expected to be completed in 2031.

President Yoweri Museveni said the nuclear plant will be critical in providing a reliable and sustainable power supply, as Uganda’s hydro, biomass, geothermal and other power sources have been fully harnessed and cannot meet energy needs estimated at 10,000 MW.

“The nuclear project comes at a critical time when nations are dealing with how to ensure energy security for social economic development,” Museveni said. “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.”

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