Does South Sudan have energy security?

It holds not only a huge amount of oil resources but also has considerable potential in solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy. But despite this enormous advantage in energy resources, the South Sudanese state faces numerous obstacles undermining its energy security.

What is a solar power plant in South Sudan?

Image: The recently launched 20MW solar energy plant in South Sudan. Credit: Ezra Group 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.

Why is South Sudan struggling to provide electricity to its citizens?

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 are the challenges facing South Sudan's Energy Security?

But despite this enormous advantage in energy resources, the South Sudanese state faces numerous obstacles undermining its energy security. Among these challenges figure the lack of energy infrastructures, the continual internal instability, the mismanagement of the energy resources, and the high dependence on its external partners.

What is South Sudan's energy potential?

Despite being a young nation, South Sudan has an enormous and diverse energy potential, ranging from nonrenewable energy sources to renewable energy sources. It holds not only a huge amount of oil resources but also has considerable potential in solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy.

How much power can a 20MW solar plant produce in Juba?

The 20MW solar plant can generate sufficient power to supply electricity to up to 16,000 households in Juba, significantly reducing energy costs and bolstering grid reliability, said the project’s developer.