German Solar-firms Are Preparing for Joint Partnerships in Uganda
Even with the abundant renewable solar energy potential in Uganda, only a handful residents have access to it, thanks to their poor marketing. In addition, the technical and economic capacities of the local solar companies have impeded their market penetration into the rural area where access to modern energy sources stands at only five per cent. The balance of the energy requirement is met through biomass.
However, last week's seminar for project development in solar energy that five leading Germany companies dealing in solar energy offered to their Uganda counterparts, is a source of hope.
During the seminar, the first in East Africa, Ugandans benefited from technical, managerial and financial training.
The German firms organised the seminar in conjunction with the German Technical Co-operation (GTZ).
The companies included Centrosolar which produces modules at production plants and offers grid connected and stand-alone solar systems; Hoppecke, a specialist in industrial solar battery systems; SMA Solar Technology AG, among the world's leading manufacturers of solar inverters; Phaesun, a service sales and marketing specialist in photovoltaic products; and Iteca, a leading supplier of products for solar electronics.
The training is a preparation for joint partnerships between the German and Uganda solar energy companies as the former looks to expand its market.
"Germany is a leading nation in solar energy expertise and technology but in need of strong local partners. Jointly one can do successful business in Uganda," said GTZ acting country director, Hermann Plumm.
The training is meant to pave the way for partnerships that will help Uganda companies expand their markets as they introduce modern solar devices suitable for use in industries households, health centres, telecommunication facilities and schools.
Making use of this abundant energy resource would also offer a huge potential for the country's economy as this presents business opportunities for project developers, energy suppliers manufacturers of solar component and system integrators.
A reliable source of energy is one of the major challenges facing Uganda today. Power shortages occur daily, just like in neighbouring Kenya which is facing a 12-hour load shedding.
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It is this demand that attracted the German companies and the German Solar Industry Association to seek business with Uganda partners in the hope of covering the whole of East Africa.
"Jointly, one can do successful business in Uganda. Uganda companies have local expertise, experience and networks, which are key to successful business investments.
They need more know-how and state of the art products, which the German partners can deliver," Mr Plumm said.
There is optimism that the new partnership will come into effect at the same time as Uganda is engaged in designing an Energy Credit Capitalisation Company.
The project co-ordinator, Specioza Ndagire told The EastAfrican that it would be the apex of the financial institution that facilitates credit to the players in the industry.
SOURCE: East African
