Hybrid solar energy systems equipped with photovoltaic (PV) systems, diesel gensets, standalone solar streetlights and related civil works have been implemented at seven healthcare centres across South Sudan.

All systems are hybrid, with more than two sources of energy incorporated into the system operation logic.

Solar PV generation is dedicated as the first priority, batteries as the second and genset as the third.

However, in sites where the grid is present, this was also integrated into the system’s logic.

The scope of the project also extended to integrating the container technical rooms in Juba, of which six had all components assembled, integrated, and tested upon dispatch to the respective sites.

A total solar system of 726.62kWp with a total battery bank storage of 1.677MWH was installed.

The seven systems are located in the distinct regions of: Juba at Kator Primary Health Care Center, Alsaba Children’s Hospital and Juba Teaching Hospital; in Lakes State at Rumbek State Hospital; in Eastern Equatoria State at Torit State Hospital; in Warrap State at Kuajok State Hospital; and in the Bahr el Ghazal Region and the Western Equatoria State at Yambio State Hospital.

An off-grid system suitable for healthcare in South Sudan

Recent statistics have revealed that access to electricity in South Sudan is staggeringly low, with only about 13% of the population having access to grid-connected power. This figure is even lower in rural areas, highlighting the severe disparities in energy access across the country.

In urban centres like Juba, while electricity might be more accessible, reliability remains a persistent issue due to inadequate infrastructure and generation capacity. This is especially crucial when it comes to the need for a stable electricity supply at healthcare facilities.

With reliable power, the health facilities are now able to operate beyond daylight hours, enabling them to offer services during emergencies at night.

The installation of solar systems in Juba represents not only a pragmatic response to energy challenges but also a step towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

With its ability to provide reliable electricity, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and empower communities, solar energy stands as a source of hope in Juba’s quest for energy security and economic development.

The installed systems allow for emergency care and response capabilities, reducing mortality rates associated with childbirth, injuries and other acute conditions, leading to improved quality of life and reduction in mortality rates.

Thanks to operational efficiency and cost savings, the need for the grid is eliminated, and the fuel costs for the diesel gensets are relatively more affordable, lowering the system’s operating costs.

The systems can also be remotely monitored based on the parameters of PV generation, load consumption and battery parameters. This includes, for example, cell voltages, system setup components, alarms and records of system performance.