ABB technology powers three substations in Uganda

Feb 11, 2025 | ABB Process Automation

ABB’s solutions are helping to deliver a reliable and efficient power supply

Uganda is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and the expansive Lake Victoria, and its abundant wildlife. In 2024, ABB delivered solutions for three substations run by the country’s leading utility, Umeme Limited (UMEME), which manages and operates the state-owned leased electricity distribution network assets.

“Since 2005, we have been working in Uganda to strengthen the country’s power distribution network, providing electricity to commercial and residential establishments,” said Gunasekaran Thevar, Managing Director East Africa for ABB Energy Industries. “These new projects will enhance our support for Uganda’s utility sector.”

ABB’s technology solutions are helping to deliver a reliable and efficient power supply, fueling economic growth, and drawing in new investments.

Powering up

A robust power infrastructure is crucial for continued economic growth. These projects are part of a broader initiative to improve the country’s electrical infrastructure and power distribution. The ABB-built substations will help address capacity constraints and ensure a more reliable power supply.

As part of this project, ABB upgraded the 33/11 KV substation in Hoima, located in the Bunyoro region, with gas insulated switchgear, a substation SCADA system and a DC charger system. Bunyoro’s oil industry is centered around the Albertine Basin in Uganda, which possesses significant oil and gas deposits. This draws attention and investment and is leading to various infrastructural developments. 

“The upgraded Hoima substation will support Bunyoro’s developing oil industry, added Gunasekaran Thevar. “We completed the project in a short timeframe, airlifted the ABB switchgear and installing it at the substations to promptly meet customer requirements.” ABB also constructed the Jinja and Matugga substations to meet regional power needs.

Long term benefits

An efficient power distribution network supports growth, development and improved living standards. ABB’s solutions at the three substations will enhance reliability and productivity while reducing power outages, allowing businesses and households to operate smoothly. An uninterrupted electricity supply will improve quality of life, attract investment, facilitate technological advancements and boost economic growth.

“ABB has been a key partner in supporting our utility sector,” said Selestino Babungi, Managing Director of UMEME. “The substations powered by ABB’s solutions will help us provide electricity to surrounding areas and uplift Uganda’s overall economic activity.”

ENDS

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and more than 105,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com

ABB’s Process Automation business automates, electrifies and digitalizes industrial operations that address a wide range of essential needs – from supplying energy, water and materials, to producing goods and transporting them to market. With its ~20,000 employees, leading technology and service expertise, ABB Process Automation helps process, hybrid and maritime industries outrun – leaner and cleaner. go.abb/processautomation  

 

For more information please contact:

Media Relations                                                                       Issued by NGAGE Marketing on behalf of ABB

Ofentse Dijoe                                                                           Andile Mbethe

Phone: +27 (0) 010 202 5105                                                     +27 (0)11 867 7763

Email : Ofentse.dijoe@za.abb.com                                              Email : andile@ngage.co.za      

 

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    Eye on Africa ABB technology powers three substations in Uganda _approved