Uganda and South Sudan are advancing a $254 million power interconnection project that will establish a 299-kilometre electricity transmission corridor from northern Uganda to Juba, creating a new market for Ugandaโs power while offering South Sudan a cheaper alternative to diesel-generated electricity.
The South SudanโUganda Power Interconnection Project (SUPIP) will connect Olwiyo to Juba/Gumbo through a 400 kV double-circuit line and integrate South Sudan into the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP).
Ugandaโs share of the project is valued at $121 million, while South Sudanโs is about $133 million. The African Development Bank is financing the project, with EU co-financing for South Sudanโs component.
Ugandaโs section includes about 150 kilometres of transmission lines, a new 400/132/33 kV substation at Bibia, upgrades to Olwiyo Substation and an extension of Karuma Substation.
The interconnection will enable Uganda to export surplus electricity and potentially access power from regional producers such as Ethiopia when needed, strengthening energy security and regional power trading. For South Sudan, access to Ugandaโs grid could reduce reliance on expensive diesel generation and improve electricity reliability for businesses, households and social services.
Following the technical launch, attention now turns to **procurement, environmental and social safeguards, and mobilisation of contractors and consultants**, bringing the project closer to construction.
