Sudan's electricity consumption in 2023 highlights the country's reliance on low-carbon energy, with more than eleven TWh from hydropower and overall low-carbon sources, accounting for more than two-thirds of its total electricity generation, which is over 17 TWh. Fossil energy contributes about five TWh, showing that most of the electricity in Sudan comes from cleaner sources. However, compared to the global average of 3,662 kWh per person, Sudan's electricity consumption sits at about 352 kWh per person, which is more than 10 times less. This significant gap suggests limitations in access to sufficient electricity, which could hinder economic development and quality of life improvements, as reliable electricity is crucial for modern infrastructure and industries.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Sudan?
Recent trends in Sudan suggest a concerning decline in electricity consumption. The latest per capita consumption is 352 kWh, which is a drop from the 2021 record of 388 kWh per person, resulting in a reduction of 36 kWh. Specifically, low-carbon electricity, which previously peaked at 244 kWh per person in 2022, has now decreased by nine kWh to 235 kWh per person in 2023. This decline is worrying, indicating challenges that might be related to infrastructure, investment, or other socio-economic factors affecting growth and stability in electricity supply. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to ensure sustainable development in Sudan.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation in Sudan, expanding solar and nuclear energy should be a priority. Observations from successful regions can offer valuable insights. For instance, China has made significant strides with solar and wind, generating 1,170 TWh and 1,130 TWh respectively, showcasing the potential of harnessing abundant solar resources, especially relevant for Sudan's sunny climate. France, with its resilient nuclear sector producing over 370 TWh, demonstrates the feasibility and long-term benefits of nuclear power as a stable energy source. Sudan could benefit immensely by adopting similar strategies, capitalizing on its natural advantages and bolstering its infrastructure for solar and nuclear energy.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Sudan shows varied progress, particularly in hydropower development. In the early years, between 1981 and the late 1990s, growth was modest with minor gains. However, the early 2000s began a more dynamic phase with significant jumps, notably in 2009 and 2010 when hydropower generation increased by close to five TWh collectively, marking one of the most vigorous periods of development. Yet, the current decade has seen fluctuations with both gains and losses, underlining the need for consistent policy and investment focus to maintain upward momentum. Such historical insights emphasize the importance of strategic planning and continued support for developing clean energy infrastructure in Sudan.
