Blencowe Resources (BRES) has announced the completion of an initial hydropower study for its Orom-Cross graphite project in Uganda.
The study confirms the availability of abundant, low-cost, and renewable hydropower from the Ugandan national grid.
This marks a major step towards Blencowe’s commitment to sustainability and its ambition to deliver a net-zero graphite operation.
Two high-capacity power transmission spurs extend to the regional grid near to Orom-Cross, one from the Bujagali Dam in Jinga and the other from the Isimba Dam.
Both of these dams are located on the Nile River.
Uganda’s hydropower tariffs are significantly lower than regional African comparisons, positioning Orom-Cross as one of the lowest-cost graphite producers globally.
The country currently has over 1,000 MW of installed hydropower capacity, with additional hydro-projects underway. Orom-Cross’s power demand of 12MW in phase 2, and rising to 40MW at full production, can be comfortably accommodated.
Blencowe is now working towards securing a long-term power purchase agreement with Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) to formalise the supply of low-cost hydroelectricity.
Access to 100% renewable energy strengthens Blencowe’s ability to achieve net-zero production, making Orom-Cross one of the most environmentally responsible graphite projects globally.
This could be a critical factor for funding providers and offtake partners in Europe and North America.
Blencowe plans to develop a beneficiation facility near the Karuma Power Station, 190 kilometres from site, in partnership with one of the world's leading SPG (spheronised purified graphite) producers.
This facility will upgrade 96% small fines graphite concentrate to 99.95% SPG, significantly increasing value and returns.
A low-cost, high-capacity power source is essential for this process. The availability of abundant, cost-effective hydropower makes this downstream processing strategy viable and highly competitive, reinforcing Orom-Cross’s position ahead as a premier graphite supplier.
First production from Orom-Cross is planned for 2026.
"Access to abundant, low-cost hydropower directly from Uganda’s national grid represents a major strategic advantage for Orom-Cross,” said executive chairman Cameron Pearce.
“This will enable us to operate sustainably with one of the lowest carbon footprints in the graphite sector while keeping production costs highly competitive. We are committed to building one of the world’s most ESG-friendly graphite projects, and securing clean energy is a critical milestone towards that goal. With work now progressing to formalise a PPA, we are securing ensuring a long-term, sustainable power solution that aligns with our development timeline."
View from Vox
Solid green credentials and a plan for low-cost production make Blencowe an attractive proposition in a market that hasn’t offered many standout companies lately. The availability of low-cost power is a boon to the company’s plans from a commercial perspective, and the hydro-electric angle will sit well with the big funds that may be considering funding development.