Integrating the Productive Use of Solar Energy (PUSE) in the Planning and Budgeting for the Agricultural Value Chain in Uganda

Posted on: 2026-06-20 11:37:20

This memorandum is based on reports of a series of meetings, dialogues, learning events, and stakeholder engagements on PUSE held in Kampala, Wakiso, Kiboga, Nakasongola, and Nakaseke between May 2024 and December 2025. These events were organized by ACODE/Heifer International Uganda in partnership with the mandated government agencies such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), Private sector players, District Local Governments and Civil Society actors. From these meetings, the stakeholders identified a number of budget-related issues that have continued to limit the uptake of solar energy in agricultural value chains in Uganda.

Uganda enjoys ample solar radiation throughout the year, making the country an ideal location for solar-powered agriculture and industrial development. The drop in global prices for solar PV systems has provided an additional window of opportunity for the solar energy development in Uganda.

Unfortunately, this opportunity may not be fully exploited if Productive Use of Solar Energy (PUSE) is not deliberately streamlined in the national planning and budgeting processes. Addressing PUSE in budgeting involves shifting from adhoc projects to a structural integration of solar energy into fiscal and industrial policy.

This memorandum which articulates issues regarding integrating the PUSE in the planning and budgeting for the agricultural value chain is presented to you by the Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment (ACODE) and Heifer International Uganda. The memorandum highlights the key budget issues that affect the PUSE in the agricultural value chain. The memorandum also presents recommendations that can enhance the integration of PUSE in the budgeting process.