The Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL) has adopted new technology to forecast water flow on the River Nile and Lake Victoria. The technology, known as ‘Operation Decision Support System for Hydropower (ODSS-HP),’ was developed with the support of the French development agency, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and funding from the European Union.

ODSS-HP is designed to optimize hydropower generation on key Ugandan power stations, including Karuma, Kiira, Isimba, and Nalubaale. It is a decision support system that provides seasonal forecasts of water flow patterns in the region, helping to plan for water shortages during dry periods and mitigate flooding risks during heavy rains.

UEGCL’s Managing Director, Harrison Mutikanga, emphasized the importance of efficiently managing water resources, particularly Lake Victoria, the primary water source for these hydropower stations. The technology plays a crucial role in optimizing hydropower generation, especially given the proximity of these power stations along the River Nile.

The system can forecast water flow patterns up to nine months in advance, taking into account factors such as rainfall, evaporation, and other hydrological parameters around Lake Victoria. UEGCL has a dedicated IT department with trained staff to operate and utilize this technology effectively.

The adoption of ODSS-HP is a significant step toward improving the management of Uganda’s water resources, enhancing hydropower generation, and minimizing the risks associated with flooding and water shortages in the region.