Bujagali Energy Limited hailed for maintaining operational standards

The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) has commended Bujagali Energy Limited (BEL) in Buikwe district for upholding high operational standards and growth in the energy sector.

ERA Executive Director, Eng Ziria Wako, said operation at the power plant is aligned with the conditions set out in its operational licence.

“We are generally happy with the operations at this power plant, so I commend it for the good work done as per the agreement,” Eng Wako said.

This was during ERA’s annual inspection tour of the company to assess the standards of work and conditions at the plant.

According to Eng Wako, the plant was designed to operate at 96 percent annual output, but records show it is achieving up to 99 percent production.

The energy company is equally flagged for sourcing 97 percent of its employees locally.

Eng Wako also noted that, in addition to full-capacity power generation, BEL management has maintained a clean facility and employs about 97 percent Ugandans.

BEL was awarded a 32-year contract to manage the Bujagali power station, beginning in January 2012.

Eng Wako exonerated BEL from the load shedding being experienced in some parts of the country, saying the disruptions were caused by the transmission company.

“BEL has no connection with power disruptions in some areas; these are caused by the transmission company, which may be using old or substandard equipment,” Eng. Wako said.

Eng Elias Kiyemba, a board member of the Electricity Regulatory Authority, said that since BEL is performing well, it may be allowed to utilise excess water at the dam to generate more power.

“Since we have seen quality work in a clean environment, we shall consider allowing BEL to utilise this extra water for more power production,” Eng. Kiyemba said.

The Bujagali hydro power station currently has a generation capacity of 250 megawatts.

He emphasised that they comply with the set parameters outlined in the licence issued by ERA.

The BEL General Manager, Mr Alaister McDougall, stressed that the adoption of modern technology in running the plant is helping to ensure quality service delivery.

“The 3-year-old plant, which can produce power at its commissioned capacity, is a testimony to ultra-modern electro-mechanical installations that ensure efficient performance,” Mr Dougall said.

He added that modern asset management at the plant also contributes to its smooth operation.

Mr Dougall stated that safety management at the power dam has also been standardised to reduce risks to workers.