The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) in Uganda regulates all activities related to electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. Any company seeking to generate more than one megawatt (MW) of power must obtain a generation license from ERA. This license allows the holder to generate electricity for connection to the national grid or for use through an independent distribution network. Below is a complete guide on how to apply for electricity generation license in Uganda.
Eligibility
Any new company or investor intending to undertake a power generation project exceeding one megawatt (1MW) is eligible to apply for an Electricity Generation License. The applicant must demonstrate the technical, financial, and environmental capacity to operate the project efficiently and safely.
ProcedureStep 1: Obtain the Application Form
You can get the Electricity Generation License Application Form from the ERA offices in Kampala or download it from the ERA website. The form must be filled in three copies and attested by a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Prepare all the required documents (listed below) in three printed copies and one electronic copy saved on a CD-ROM in Microsoft Office format.
Step 3: Pay the Processing Fee
Visit the ERA office and pay the non-refundable processing fee at the cashier. Obtain a payment receipt, which must be attached to your submission.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Submit three hard copies and one soft copy (CD-ROM) of your completed application and supporting documents to the ERA Service Desk. Include your payment receipt. You will receive an acknowledgment receipt showing the date and details of your submission.
Step 5: Review of Application
The ERA will review your application to ensure all required information and documents have been provided.
- If the application is incomplete, ERA will notify you to furnish additional information.
- Once complete, the review continues within 30 days of acknowledgment.
Step 6: Public Notification
ERA will require you to publish a public notice in two newspapers — one circulating in the area of operation and another of national circulation.
- The notice invites public objections or representations within a specified period.
- Submit copies of the newspaper publications to ERA.
Step 7: Evaluation and Decision
If no objections are raised, ERA will deliberate on your application based on its merits and compliance with licensing standards.
- If approved, ERA will notify you in writing within six months from the date of receipt.
- If rejected, you will receive a written explanation and may make representations within 21 days for reconsideration.
Step 8: Pay the Licensing Fee
If your application is approved, ERA will specify the conditions and licensing fee to be paid. The fee depends on the generation capacity (in megawatts). Once payment is made, ERA prepares and issues the Electricity Generation License.
Step 9: Collect Your License
The applicant can collect the Electricity Generation License from the ERA Head Office after confirmation of payment and approval.
Required Documents
Attach the following documents when submitting your application:
- Completed and attested Application Form (in triplicate)
- Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum & Articles of Association, or Deed of Partnership
- Proof of land ownership or lease agreement (e.g., Title Deed or Sale Agreement)
- Tax Clearance Certificate for the past three years
- Ten-year Business Plan detailing project implementation
- Off-take Agreement or Power Purchase Arrangement
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Certificate or proof of submission to the Ministry of Environment
- Fuel Supply Agreement or letter from supplier (if applicable)
- Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Letter of Intent with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor
- Financing Agreements or letters of funding from financial institutions
- Project timelines for commissioning and capacity rollout
Fees
License fees depend on the category and size of the generator.
- Fees range: USD $2,500 – $75,000 based on capacity.
- The processing fee paid at submission is non-refundable.
Validity
An Electricity Generation License in Uganda is typically valid for 40 years, after which it may be renewed upon application.
Processing Time
The maximum processing time for a complete application is 180 days (6 months) from the date of submission.
Office Locations & Contacts
Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) – Head Office
New ERA House, Plot 5C-1, Third Street, Lugogo Industrial Area
P.O. Box 10332, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 417 101800 / +256 393 260166
Complaints Hotline: +256 200 506000
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.era.go.ug
Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL)
UEDCL Tower, 6th Floor, Plot 37, Nakasero Road
P.O. Box 7390, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 312 330 300
Email: [email protected]
Instructions
- Any licensee who fails to comply with license conditions without lawful excuse commits an offense and is liable to a fine.
- Licenses for hydropower plants below 10 MW are exempt from this requirement.
- A licensee may apply for renewal within three years before expiry.
- Objections to applications must be filed within 21 days from the date of the public notice.
Need for the Document
An Electricity Generation License legally authorizes a company to generate and sell electricity in Uganda. It ensures compliance with environmental, technical, and safety standards set by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA).
By following these steps to apply for electricity generation license in Uganda, investors can contribute to Uganda’s growing energy sector, expand renewable energy production, and support the national goal of universal electricity access.
