The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has launched a public consultation on the adoption of a comprehensive set of international IEC and ISO standards related to lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. This initiative, led by Technical Committee UNBS/TC 115, aims to align Uganda’s regulatory framework with global best practices in battery safety, EV charging infrastructure, and related digital communication protocols.

The draft standards cover a wide range of topics, including general and specific requirements for EV conductive charging systems, plugs and connectors, digital communication between EVs and charging stations, vehicle-to-grid communication, and the management of charging infrastructure. Additional standards address the safety and performance testing of lithium-ion batteries, environmental testing for automotive electronics, and functional safety at the software level for automotive applications.

Stakeholders are invited to review and comment on the suitability and applicability of these draft standards during the public review period, which runs from August 10 to September 9, 2026. The consultation process emphasizes transparency and stakeholder engagement, with comments to be submitted to the UNBS by September 6, 2026.

The adoption of these standards is expected to significantly impact manufacturers, importers, distributors, and operators of EVs, batteries, and charging infrastructure in Uganda. The move is designed to enhance safety, interoperability, and quality in the rapidly evolving electric mobility sector, ensuring that Uganda’s market is aligned with international requirements and practices.

This regulatory initiative is classified as High Impact.

Key reasons for high impact:

• Broad adoption of multiple international standards affecting lithium-ion batteries, EV charging systems, connectors, and digital communication protocols.
• Introduction of new safety, performance, and interoperability requirements for a wide range of products and stakeholders.
• Mandatory compliance expected for manufacturers, importers, distributors, and operators in the electric mobility sector.

Who is affected?

Manufacturers and importers of EVs and batteries, charging infrastructure providers, automotive software developers, testing laboratories, and distributors of related components.

Conclusion:

The adoption of these standards will require significant adjustments in product design, testing, certification, and market access strategies for all stakeholders involved in the Ugandan electric mobility ecosystem.