South Sudan peninsula energy solutions

How can South Sudan's energy sector support peacebuilding?

One possibility for South Sudan’s electricity sector is to work with the energy transition objectives of the United Nations (UN) Secretariat, which present new and unique opportunities to unlock a series of clean energy projects across the country. This approach is also a creative way to support peacebuilding.

Why is energy infrastructure underdeveloped in South Sudan?

Partly due to the civil wars (e.g., 1955-1972, 1983-2005 & 2013-present), energy infrastructure remains very underdeveloped in South Sudan. Despite a peace agreement in 2015, which has been revitalized recently, conflict has impeded the country’s effort in transitioning to renewable energy.

Does South Sudan have a refining capacity?

Despite being an oil-producing state, South Sudan has no domestic refining capacity. Virtually all access to electricity comes from generators that rely on imported diesel. This energy dependence requires hard currency, which is a drain on the government’s limited cash reserves.

How does South Sudan's energy sector affect conflict dynamics?

South Sudan’s energy sector is deeply embedded in the country’s conflict dynamics, from the economy’s near total dependence on oil production and the accompanying patronage systems to the reliance on imported diesel for access to electricity.

Are there isolated grids in South Sudan?

There are other isolated grids in Bor, Bentiu, Wau and Rumbek whose sizes were not known by the time of writing this report. Inadequate grid infrastructure in South Sudan complicates access to electricity. The one in Bentiu, like the ones in Malakal and Kodok, has been destroyed by the 2013 civil war. 2.5. Implications of inadequate energy access

Is oil the right form of energy for South Sudan?

However, oil is not the right form of energy to meet South Sudan’s rising energy demand due to (1) high costs (e.g. high costs of fuel and generator repair), (2) sporadic diesel fuel supply, (3) inefficiency and unsustainability and (4) detrimental health impacts on people and environment.