A public-private partnership in South Sudan has launched the country's first major solar power plant and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in the capital Juba, where it is expected to provide electricity to thousands of homes.
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South Sudan has taken a significant step toward renewable energy with the launch of its first large-scale solar power project. The Ezra Group, a prominent business conglomerate, has successfully developed and financed a 20-megawatt (MW) solar power plant, complemented by a 14-megawatt-hour (MWh) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).
This project marks a significant achievement for South Sudan, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy and environmental responsibility. By investing in solar power and battery storage technology, the country is making a decisive move toward energy independence, economic growth, and a sustainable future for its people.
According to a 2024 sciencedirect.com report, South Sudan struggles to provide its citizens access to electricity despite having abundant energy resources, particularly fossil fuels.
What is the future of electricity in South Sudan?
According to recent projections, in the long term, the demand for electricity in South Sudan could grow to 1400 MW by 2030. In sum, the fundamental challenge for South Sudan is to build new public service infrastructure and refurbish depleted water, energy, transportation, and communication systems.
At present, the grid-based electricity situation in South Sudan is characterized by routine power outages and lack of efficiency in the distribution system . In fact, in 2020, 580 GWh or nearly 100 % of electricity was produced from oil and gas, and just 1 GWh from renewable sources .
The situation in South Sudan, the world's newest country, is unique. It does not have any real existing energy infrastructure.