Uganda has taken a significant step towards promoting sustainable mobility and reducing carbon emissions with the launch of its first-ever Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station at Amber House in Kampala.
This initiative, led by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, aims to support the growing number of electric vehicles in the country, which already stands at nearly 3,000, including motorcycles, cars, and buses.
The newly unveiled charging station boasts a power output ranging from 30kW to 360kW, allowing vehicles to recharge in as little as 15 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa emphasized the importance of transitioning to electric mobility, stating, “The shift to electric vehicles offers numerous benefits, including lower fuel costs, reduced maintenance expenses, and, most importantly, a cleaner and greener future.”
Nankabirwa also noted that the transport sector is a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, making electric mobility a crucial solution in combating climate change.
“Globally, the adoption of electric mobility is still relatively low, but Uganda is making commendable progress. With this EV charging station, we are laying the foundation for an eco-friendly transportation system,” she added.
Uganda’s transition to electric mobility aligns with its clean energy policy, which leverages the country’s more than 90% renewable electricity production.
The government has pledged full support for e-mobility through strategic policies, investments, and incentives.
Eng Simon Kalanzi, a representative from the Permanent Secretary’s office at the Ministry of Energy, reaffirmed this commitment, stating, “With fast-charging stations now operational, the government is taking a direct lead in sustainable mobility through its energy policy and efficiency initiatives.”
Kalanzi also highlighted the critical role of the private sector in the transition, saying, “We are working with private sector partners to attract investments in sustainable mobility and energy-saving solutions.”
The global e-mobility market is expanding rapidly, projected to surge from $280 billion in 2021 to $1.5 trillion by 2030, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 27.2%.
However, the transportation sector remains a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 10% of total emissions in Africa.
Despite the benefits, Uganda’s e-mobility sector faces several challenges, including the establishment of operational standards, regulatory frameworks, and expanding infrastructure. Financial institutions, such as NCBA Bank Uganda, are stepping in to support this transition.
Adad Iraguha, Head of Asset Finance at NCBA Bank Uganda, expressed the bank’s commitment to facilitating e-mobility adoption, saying, “As a bank, we are ready to finance Ugandans at low interest rates who wish to purchase electric vehicles and bikes. This will accelerate the uptake of e-mobility in the country.”
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
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