How to apply for a new electricity connection (UEDCL) & free connection policy

Quick answer

Wire with an ERA-certified wireman → apply at uedcl.co.ug → pay inspection fee → wait for meter. Free or about UGX 30,000 within 90 m of a pole.

Checked 4 November 2026
Jump to a section
  1. Who qualifies for a free connection?
  2. Steps to apply
  3. Documents
  4. How much does a new connection cost?
  5. Why connections take long
  6. Frequently asked questions

UEDCL now handles new electricity connections in most of Uganda. Under the government's Free Connection Policy, many homes near existing power lines can be connected at little or no cost.

Who qualifies for a free connection?

"No-pole" and "one-pole" connections – homes within about 90 metres of a low-voltage pole – under the Electricity Access Scale-Up Project. If you need several new poles, you may have to pay for the extra materials.

Steps to apply

  1. Wire your house using an ERA-certified wireman. Get a Digital Wiring Certificate number from them.
  2. Apply online on the UEDCL self-help portal at uedcl.co.ug, or at a UEDCL office.
  3. Pay the inspection fee using your work request number (only through official UEDCL payment channels).
  4. Inspection and survey of your premises.
  5. Pay the connection fee (if any) and wait for the meter installation.

Documents

  • Copy of your National ID
  • Digital Wiring Certificate number
  • Wayleave consent if the line crosses a neighbour's land
  • Business registration documents (for business premises)

How much does a new connection cost?

Under the free connection scheme, the customer cost was reported reduced to about UGX 30,000 (Monitor). Connections that need extra poles, three-phase supply or commercial meters cost more. Your exact charges appear on your quotation – pay only through UEDCL's official channels.

Why connections take long

UEDCL inherited about 127,000 pending applications from Umeme, and Parliament questioned delays in 2026. Around 270,000 new meters were being tested for roll-out. Expect waiting time and follow up using your work request number.

Scam alert: UEDCL staff should never ask you to pay cash or send money to a personal number to "speed up" a connection.

Frequently asked questions

Is electricity connection free in Uganda?

For homes within about 90 m of a low-voltage pole (no-pole or one-pole connections) under the free connection policy, mostly yes, apart from wiring and small fees.

Who pays for house wiring?

You do. Use an ERA-certified wireman to get a valid wiring certificate.

Fees and codes change. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.

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