Makerere University has opened an East African Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency as part of efforts to increase research and innovation in alternative energy sources in the region.
The initiative is supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and the Austrian Development Agency.
Uganda recently launched two innovative energy efficient projects, the solar-powered Kayoola bus and the Kiira EV car.
"The centre is mandated to contribute to increased access to modern, affordable and reliable energy services," said Irene Muloni, Uganda's Minister for Energy and Minerals, at the launch of the centre at Makerere University in Kampala.
The increasing threat of global warming is fostering more innovation and investment in cleaner energy alternatives for lighting and transport systems. It is this investment potential that the centre is hoping to tap into.
Innovations and competition have driven down energy costs, as solar photo cells and wind energy are now among the cheapest electricity sources in many countries.
While much attention has been paid to Uganda's prospects of becoming a mass producer of solar-powered buses, the launch of the Kayoola bus has thrust the country into the limelight, with Kiira Motors Corporation saying their product could spur more innovations in the energy industry.
Uganda is keen on promoting the use of solar as it seeks to expand rural electrification. While much emphasis has been given to undertaking huge hydro projects, the government is starting to prioritise solar power projects.
Solar power is not a new concept in the country as a number of households with no connection to the electricity grid have opted to install solar panels on top of their houses for their power needs.
Other renewable energy sources include bio-mass, wind energy, geothermal and hydropower.
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