Evaluating the upgrade potential of Uganda’s 132 kV transmission lines to 220 kV: Nkenda to Mbarara South as a case Study

This study examines the feasibility of upgrading Uganda’s 132 kV transmission lines to 220 kV, using the Nkenda to Mbarara South line as a case study. The primary focus is to mitigate power losses, improve system efficiency, and enhance voltage regulation. The research employs the Nominal Pi-model in MATLAB to verify line parameters, evaluate performance indicators (efficiency, power factor, and voltage regulation), and assess economic viability through a Net Present Value (NPV) analysis. Findings reveal that the upgrade would reduce power losses by 68%, increase efficiency to 98.77%, and lower voltage regulation by 7.69%. The study concludes that the upgrade is both technically and economically viable, offering long-term benefits to Uganda’s energy infrastructure. Recommendations include the immediate implementation of the 220 kV upgrade and the development of policies to optimize transmission system investments.