South Sudan has taken a significant step toward renewable energy with the launch of its first large-scale solar power project. The Ezra Group, a prominent business conglomerate, has successfully developed and financed a 20-megawatt (MW) solar power plant, complemented by a 14-megawatt-hour (MWh) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). Spearheaded by Ezra Construction and Development Group Ltd., this initiative marks a historic milestone in South Sudan’s transition to sustainable energy.
The launch event in Gondokoro was attended by high-ranking government officials, including South Sudan’s Vice President for the Infrastructure Cluster, Taban Deng Gai, and Minister of Energy and Dams, Peter Marcello Nasir Jelenge. Other distinguished attendees included the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Energy and Dams, Sultan Lam Tungwar Kueigwong, the Deputy Governor of Central Equatoria, Paulino Loduku, and Eritrea’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Yohannes Teklemichael.
This pioneering project is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, lower electricity costs, and provide clean, reliable energy to thousands of households. By integrating renewable energy into the national grid, it aligns with South Sudan’s environmental sustainability goals while making electricity more affordable and accessible to the local population.
The 20 MW solar plant is set to power approximately 16,000 households in Juba. It will also enhance grid stability and reduce energy costs for consumers. The accompanying battery storage system ensures that solar-generated power remains available when needed, stabilizing the grid and improving renewable energy reliability. The project incorporates advanced Huawei components, including smart inverters, smart transformers (STSs), and smart loggers, to optimize efficiency and sustainability.
During the launch, Natnael Ghebrengus Ezra, Chief Operations Officer of the Ezra Group, expressed gratitude to the government for its support. He acknowledged the Ministry of Energy and Dams for playing a crucial role in bringing the project to fruition, emphasizing that collaboration has been essential in advancing renewable energy in South Sudan. He further highlighted that this project is more than just an infrastructure milestone—it signifies a shared commitment to innovation, progress, and sustainability.
The success of this project is the result of strong partnerships with key stakeholders. The South Sudan Electricity Corporation (SSEC) and the Ministry of Energy and Dams have played a crucial role in overseeing power generation, transmission, and distribution, ensuring seamless integration of renewable energy into the national grid. The Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO), a public-private partnership between Ezra Group and SSEC, is responsible for distributing electricity to Juba’s residents. JEDCO sources bulk energy from Ezra Construction & Development Group and supplies it across the region.
With the commissioning of this solar plant, renewable energy now accounts for 19% of JEDCO’s total electricity distribution, complementing existing thermal power plants. However, ensuring the long-term success of renewable energy in South Sudan requires additional clean energy sources. The government-owned Nisitu Solar Plant is expected to supplement the existing thermal power supply, further stabilizing the country’s energy sector.
Ezra Construction & Development Group remains committed to expanding renewable energy across South Sudan. The company is actively exploring new ways to provide cleaner and more affordable electricity to benefit a broader segment of the population. With a strong focus on sustainability and cost reduction, Ezra Group aims to accelerate South Sudan’s transition to a greener and more energy-secure future.
This project marks a significant achievement for South Sudan, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy and environmental responsibility. By investing in solar power and battery storage technology, the country is making a decisive move toward energy independence, economic growth, and a sustainable future for its people.
