Royal Milk launches solar energy initiative to boost sustainability

UGANDA – Royal Milk has made a significant stride in enhancing sustainability within the dairy sector by launching its renewable energy initiative. 

In January, the company introduced its subsidiary, SunCool, which installed a 20kWh solar mini-grid at its collection center located in Kijunjubwa, Masindi District. 

This initiative is aimed at alleviating the financial strain on farmers caused by high fuel costs and frequent breakdowns of diesel generators, which have been affecting milk chilling operations.

According to a report by Royal Milk, the new solar-powered milk chilling system, comprising a 1,500L cooler alongside the existing 5,000L cooler, is expected to reduce energy costs significantly, thereby increasing farmers’ payouts and supporting a more sustainable dairy sector.

The solar mini-grid is not just limited to powering milk chilling systems. It also brings vital resources to the region, including clean water. 

A solar-powered water pump has replaced the previous diesel-powered system, now supplying water to over 100 households in a drought-affected area. 

This is especially crucial for a region that has not seen rainfall since November 2024, according to local reports.

The solar mini-grid also plays a key role in advancing e-mobility in the region. Karaa Africa, an e-mobility company, has partnered with Royal Milk to charge e-bicycles at the hub. 

These bicycles are now available for milk collection agents, extension workers, veterinarians, and farmers, enabling them to move more easily around the region while reducing transport emissions.

In addition, the solar hub is empowering smallholder farmers with the tools and equipment needed to improve productivity. 

AgriShare Uganda, for example, has been instrumental in allowing farmers to hire or purchase water pumps, irrigation systems, and animal spray equipment, significantly boosting farm productivity. 

LUK Solar Ltd, another partner, is helping dairy farmers revolutionize storage by offering solar-powered refrigeration, which aids in the production of local fermented yogurt, known as ‘Bongo.’

To ensure that farmers can continue to benefit from these technologies, Royal Milk is working on a farmer financing platform called ‘Sente Mata,’ which will provide sustainable access to solar-powered solutions. 

This initiative is being developed alongside a farmer management information system, which will gather data on pilot farmers, helping to improve service delivery. 

A total of 1,500 farmers in Kijunjubwa will benefit from hands-on training in these innovations, which will ultimately create a more resilient dairy value chain.

“This transformation is made possible through the generous support of The Innovation Village and the Mott Foundation,”  Royal Milk said in a LinkedIn post. “Together, we are proving that solar is the future of dairy.”

The AgriSolar project is a clear example of how renewable energy can transform agriculture, offering farmers not only better access to technology but also creating a more sustainable and profitable industry.