
Living Ounyesiga
The adoption of solar energy in rural Uganda stands as a beacon of hope for addressing the nation’s energy deficit. With only 47.1 percent of the population having access to electricity, as reported by the World Bank, a significant 52.9 percent still live without reliable power. For many of these underserved communities, solar panels offer a viable solution, particularly in health centres and government schools where the government has made commendable investments.
Despite these strides, challenges have impeded the full realisation of solar energy’s potential, necessitating immediate interventions to enhance its impact. One of the major obstacles is the low efficiency of the solar panels in use, which typically range between 15 percent and 20 per cent.
This limitation restricts their capacity to generate sufficient energy for everyday needs. In addition, the prevalence of outdated solar panels in rural areas has further dampened their effectiveness, leading to misconceptions about their reliability. Many rural residents believe that solar panels can only produce dim light, fail to charge phones or radios adequately, and in some cases, even damage devices like phones when connected.
Another pressing issue is the short lifespan of many solar panels, with some failing after only two years of use. This problem is exacerbated by poor maintenance practices, exposure to harsh weather conditions, and the use of substandard equipment. Furthermore, the accumulation of old, non-functional solar panels in these areas creates an environmental challenge, as these panels do not decompose easily, adding to the growing problem of electronic waste.
Despite these setbacks, solar energy remains an essential lifeline for rural Uganda. Its potential to improve healthcare, education, and livelihoods cannot be overstated. However, to fully leverage this potential, the government must adopt a comprehensive strategy to address the aforementioned challenges and upgrade to high-efficiency solar technologies. The government should prioritise the deployment of advanced solar panels that offer higher efficiency, such as monocrystalline or polycrystalline panels.
These modern panels can achieve efficiency levels exceeding 20 per cent, significantly enhancing energy output. Upgrading existing installations with these technologies would help meet the growing energy demands of rural communities. To prolong the lifespan of solar panels, regular maintenance is crucial. The government should establish local maintenance hubs equipped with trained technicians to handle repairs and replacements.
Training programmes for community members can also empower them to take part in maintaining the systems, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Solar panels must be installed with protective measures to shield them from environmental wear and tear. Weather-resistant frames, dust covers, and periodic cleaning schedules can reduce degradation and improve performance. The issue of old, non-functional solar panels requires urgent attention.
Recycling facilities should be established to repurpose or safely dispose of outdated panels. Collaborating with manufacturers to adopt take back programmes for old panels can also mitigate environmental concerns. Enhance Public Awareness and Education. Addressing misconceptions about solar energy is key to encouraging its adoption. Public awareness campaigns can educate communities on the capabilities and limitations of solar panels, demonstrating their reliability when properly maintained.
Showcasing successful solar projects in health centre and schools can inspire confidence and drive demand. Cost considerations shouldn’t be an obstacle to obtaining high-quality solar panels. Low-income households can now get solar energy through government subsidies, pay-as-you-go plans, or low-interest loans. These efforts can be supported by collaborations with international donors and private sector participants. With focused efforts and strategic planning, solar power can illuminate not only rural homes but also Uganda’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable development.
Dr Ounyesiga is a specialist in Solar Power
Generation and Transmission