On October 22, 2024, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) held a significant public hearing at the Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, to discuss license applications from the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL). The hearing focused on UEDCL's request for licenses to distribute, sell, and supply electricity following the conclusion of Umeme Limited's concession, marking an important step in Uganda's Second-Generation Power Sector Reforms.

The license applications from UEDCL, submitted under the Electricity (Application for Permit, License, and Tariff Review) Regulations of 2007, align with the Government of Uganda's decision not to renew expiring concession agreements with private distribution companies. This decision is part of a broader reform initiative aimed at strengthening public sector involvement in electricity distribution. ERA Chairperson Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, who presided over the hearing, emphasized that UEDCL's application is part of the strategy to ensure aseamless transition and improved service delivery in Uganda's electricity sector.

In preparation for this transition, UEDCL has already taken over the management and operation of several rural electricity concessions previously managed by other entities. These include:

    1. Pader Abim Community Multipurpose Electricity Cooperative Society (PACMECS), which served the northern districts of Pader, Agago, Abim, and others.
    2. Kyegegwa Rural Electricity Cooperative Society (KRECS), which served across Kyegegwa, Nakasongola, and nearby areas.
    3. Kilembe Investments Limited, which provided electricity services in southwestern districts like Bushenyi and Kasese.

 During the hearing, UEDCL Stakeholders at the hearing posed critical questions about the quality and consistency of power supply, contract continuity, management of ongoing legal issues, and the handling of Umeme Limited

In her concluding remarks, Dr. Kanaabi thanked the participants for their engagement and active participation, assuring them that their feedback would play a significant role in ERA

The public hearing attracted a diverse range of participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Ministry of Finance, Uganda Manufacturers Association, Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), Zanzibar Utilities Regulatory Authority (ZURA), Norwegian Water Resources and Environment Directorate, PWC, NLC Advocates, Grid Works, Busoga Forest Company, and certified electricians. Many participants joined remotely via Zoom, ERA's website, YouTube, and X platforms, ensuring a broad engagement across sectors.

This hearing represents a critical step in Uganda's commitment to an inclusive and consumer-focused electricity sector as it transitions to a public-led model, aiming for sustainable, reliable energy access nationwide.