Regional developer Ezra Group has started operations at a 20MW solar power plant and 14MWh battery in South Sudan.
Developed and financed in-house by Ezra Construction and Development Group, a subsidiary of the Ezra Group, the asset represents the country’s first official renewable energy source.
The launch event in Gondokoro was attended by dignitaries, including South Sudan’s Vice President for the Infrastructure Cluster, Taban Deng Gai, the Minister of Energy and Dams, Peter Marcello Nasir Jelenge. 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.
The 20MW solar plant can generate sufficient power to supply electricity to up to 16,000 households in Juba, significantly reducing energy costs and bolstering grid reliability.
The accompanying BESS stores energy generated by the solar plant, enabling on-demand power supply, stabilising the grid and enhancing the reliability of renewable energy.
This asset uses Huawei components, including smart inverters, smart transformers (STSs) and smart loggers.
Speaking at the event, Natnael Ghebrengus Ezra, CEO of Ezra Group, said: “Our success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Ministry of Energy and Dams.
“Your vision and leadership have been instrumental in advancing reliable renewable energy in South Sudan.”
He added, “This project is more than just an infrastructure milestone-it is a symbol of what we can achieve through shared purpose.
“Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous future. Let us continue to drive progress, innovation, and sustainability for generations to come.”
The success of the project has been made possible through strategic collaboration with key partners, South Sudan Electricity Corporation (SSEC) and Ministry of Energy and Dams.
These regulatory bodies oversee the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity in South Sudan.
They played a crucial role in approving and facilitating the integration of renewable energy into the national grid.
Juba Electricity Distribution Company (JEDCO), a public-private partnership between Ezra Group and SSEC, serves as the primary electricity distributor to the public in Juba, receiving bulk energy from Ezra Construction & Development Group.