This article presents a case study of the struggles of South Sudan, the newest country to develop a new electricity grid, and the strategic choices it faces in a post-conflict situation. In addition to the energy trilemm. AfDBAfrican Development BankAFRECAfrican. The situation in South Sudan, the world's newest country, is unique. It does not have any real existing energy infrastructure. The government is roiled by factionalism and corruption, and u. The article is founded on three pillars. First, a statistical analysis on the basis of international, regional, and national data sources to create a profile of the current electricity trends. Despite having an abundance of energy resources, particularly fossil fuels, South Sudan struggles to give its citizens access to electricity. The long period of historical neglect of the reg. Conflict is clearly related to issues with electricity provision. It disrupts the ability to build infrastructure, to provide reasonable cost access to electricity, and disrupts the government's abi.
[PDF Version]
What is the grid-based electricity situation in South Sudan?
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 .
How can humanitarian agencies contribute to solar energy in South Sudan?
Refugee contexts in countries such as Jordan have also led to the increased transition to solar energy through donor-led initiatives. Humanitarian agencies can also play a critical role in generating demand for solar systems in South Sudan refugee settlements, where biomass is predominantly used as energy source (Lemi & La Belle, 2020).
Its role as a power utility is expected to intensify as programmes to increase electricity access in South Sudan are implemented. It is proposed under the Electricity Bill 2015 as the regulatory entity for the electricity sector in South Sudan. It would function as the energy regulator whose functions would include the creation of regulations.
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.
Despite having an abundance of energy resources, particularly fossil fuels, South Sudan struggles to give its citizens access to electricity. The long period of historical neglect of the region by the Sudanese government before independence and the recent conflict, is the primary cause of the current energy challenges.
Of-grid solar companies in South Sudan focus on serving large institutions and commercial customers, who make up over 80% of their sales. They prefer serving international NGOs and aid organisations operating in the country since these organisations can readily pay, unlike households. This leaves the household market underserved.