Electricity consumption in South Sudan remains notably low in 2023, with individuals consuming just about 51 kWh per person annually. When compared to the global average of 3771 kWh per person, this is close to none. The vast majority of this energy is derived from fossil fuel sources, contributing to environmental and climate-related challenges. A mere fraction, approximately 3 kWh per person, comes from low-carbon energy sources such as solar. Such minimal electricity consumption affects various aspects of life, hindering economic development, education, health services, and the overall quality of life. This highlights the urgent need for South Sudan to elevate its low-carbon electricity generation and consumption to bridge this significant gap.

Is Electricity Growing in South Sudan?

Unfortunately, electricity consumption in South Sudan has not been on a growth trajectory. In fact, the available data indicates a decline in total electricity consumption, dropping from a prior high of 58 kWh/person in 2018 to 51 kWh/person in 2023. This represents a decrease of about 6 kWh/person within five years. Low-carbon electricity generation, primarily from solar energy, also remains stagnant at 3 kWh/person, unchanged from the year prior. This lack of progress is troubling, as it suggests missed opportunities for economic growth and social improvement that come from increased and cleaner electricity access.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, South Sudan can look to successful regions around the world. Countries like China and the U.S. have demonstrated substantial achievements in solar and nuclear energy production, generating 1213 TWh and 785 TWh respectively, from solar and nuclear sources. South Sudan could follow their lead by investing in solar power owing to its ample sunlight, adopting strategies that boosted solar energy generation in places like California and Brazil. Furthermore, exploring investments in nuclear power, as achieved in Illinois and France, could provide a stable and reliable electricity supplement, paving the way for increased energy security and sustainability in the nation.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in South Sudan, particularly from solar, has been stagnant with no measurable changes over the past decade. From 2013 to 2023, solar electricity generation has shown no growth, consistently adding 0 TWh to the national grid annually. This stagnation is worrying as it reflects missed opportunities and a lack of infrastructure development needed for cleaner energy expansion. By looking at countries that have successfully increased their solar and nuclear capacity, South Sudan could implement similar strategies to ensure a consistent, sustainable supply of low-carbon electricity that can meet its growing electricity demand in the future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade