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.
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.
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.
Does jedco need a solar plant?
The solar plant is set to contribute 19% of the total energy distributed by JEDCO, complementing existing thermal power plants. However, to ensure reliability and long-term sustainability, additional renewable energy sources, such as the government-owned Nisitu Solar Plant, will be crucial in supplementing the thermal output, said the Group.
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.