PIC: Traders showcase their energy saving merchandise during the Energy Week. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)
The low level of awareness is hindering the use of abundant renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro and geothermal power in Uganda.
David Duli, the country director of World Wide Fund (WWF) Uganda said the potential of abundant renewable energy has not been used, resulting in a situation where a small number of the population (21%) has access to electricity, while the majority depend on wood fuel and charcoal to meet their energy needs.
He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Energy Week at the Kampala City Council Authority grounds in Lugogo, Kampala.
He said the provision of sustainable energy solutions in Uganda is crucial for alleviating poverty, strengthening the country’s economy and protecting the environment. He noted that the high cost of solar equipment was discouraging people from investing in them.
WWF is an international institution that seeks to stop the degradation of the planet’s natural environment. Duli urged the Government to find measures to mitigate the impact of environmental degradation resulting from refugees’ congested settlements.
State minister for energy Eng. Simon D’Ujanga said this year’s theme titled: Access to Clean Energy, the Bridge to Sustainable Development, was chosen in relation to Goal Seven of the Sustainable Development Goals, which calls for universal access to affordable and clean energy by 2030.
The objective of the energy week is to increase awareness of the public on the use of energy resources and provide a platform for dialogue on the challenging aspects of energy.