Sustainable Renewable Energy Businesses in Uganda

Nordic Climate Facility (NCF)

This project was implemented as a partnership between Makerere University Kampala and The Royal Norwegian Society for Development (Norges Vel), Norway from October 2011 to March 2014.

Project Funder: Nordic Climate Facility (NCF)

Objective: To support the development of local renewable energy companies which will utilize renewable energy in a sustainable and financially beneficial manner.

Activities:

1. SE - Incubator

Sustainable energy business incubator for young entrepreneurs

Incubation Services included:

  • Individual assistance to develop business plans and applications for funding
  • Network with financing institutions/capital providers, authorities, industry and universities
  • Training to upgrade managerial, operational, technical, financial and legal capabilities
  • Office space for a limited period, depending on business idea)
  • Investment support based on application

2. SE - Support

Sustainable energy business support services to RE SMEs

Business Support Services included;

  • Networking with financing institutions/capital providers, authorities, industry and universities
  • Individual assistance to develop business plans and applications for funding
  • Training to upgrade managerial, operational, technical, financial and legal capabilities
  • MSc thesis cooperation with universities, focusing on company challenges (such as market and barrier analysis

3. SE - Pilot

Sustainable energy pilot project; Electrification using Biomass (Husk Power Systems)

The business idea for the SE-pilot was based on an Indian business model on decentralized electrification using biomass. Husk Power Systems Pvt. Ltd. from India was the central partner in the pilot.

The aims of the SE-pilot were:

  • Transfer of technology: To demonstrate that a renewable energy business model from abroad can work successfully in Uganda.
  • Know-how: Practical experience from establishing and running a new enterprise available for SE-incubator, SE-support and the network.
  • To utilize renewable energy in a sustainable manner, providing reliable, renewable and affordable electricity and heat to rural areas.
  • Employment and financial benefits in an established value chain.