South Sudan has the lowest electricity consumption per capita in sub-Saharan Africa, due in part to its underdeveloped energy infrastructure, which has been severely impacted by decades of conflict. The investment in power generation and transmission infrastructure is considered a priority by the government; however, securing the intensive capital required from both public and private sector financiers remains a critical challenge. The future of the country’s electricity generation looks to be dominated by hydropower, as the country has the capacity for up to 2,100 MW; however, proposed projects must be funded before progress can be made. Based on 2013 data, only 1% of the country has access to grid electricity, due to the low level of power generation and the insufficient distribution network. 4% of urban areas are connected to power, but these areas are subject to load shedding and forced power outages.

Sources:

• www.eapicforum.com/southsuday
• IEA, World Energy Outlook 2015
• National Baseline Household Survey, 2012
• Interview with Minister of Electricity, Dams, Irrigation & Water Resources, http://www.esi-africa.com/exclusive-interview-with-the-hon-jemma-nunu-kumba-minister-of-electricity-dams-irrigation-water-resources-for-south-sudan/