Energy Use and Carbon Emissions of Sugar Processing Factory in Uganda

The sugar industry is one of the major agro-processing industries characterized by high energy demand and notable greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study assessed energy use and associated carbon emissions at Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL), a major sugar processing plant in Uganda. The research aimed to quantify energy use across processing stages, evaluate associated carbon emissions, and examine the relationship between energy use and carbon emissions. This study employed a quantitative case study research design with an explanatory approach, analyzing data from energy audit and production records (2023–2024). Energy use was expressed in GJ, while carbon emissions were calculated using Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Tier 1 emission factors, focusing on Scope 1 (direct) and 2 (indirect) emissions. Regression analysis was conducted using SPSS v25. Findings indicate that SCOUL relies heavily on bagasse cogeneration, meeting 90%–96% of its monthly energy demand and exporting surplus electricity to the national grid. Energy demand exhibited seasonal variation, ranging from approximately 50,000 GJ in the off-season to over 475,000 GJ during peak months. Stage-level analysis identified Juice Heating & Evaporation, Crystallization, and Milling as the most energy-intensive processes. Carbon emissions were dominated by grid electricity (71%), followed by bagasse (28%) and diesel (<1%). Although total emissions rose by 12.6% between 2023 and 2024, carbon intensity improved from 0.27 to 0.24 tCO2e/t due to stabilized production. Regression analysis revealed a very strong positive correlation between energy use and emissions (R= 0.983). SCOUL demonstrates significant renewable energy integration, with bagasse as the primary fuel. Reducing fossil fuel dependence, enhancing efficiency in high-demand stages, and maintaining operational stability could further reduce carbon intensity, supporting sustainable sugar production.