العربية

Energy Justice Program

Given its available energy resources, Sudan has the potential for enjoying a more stable and equitable energy supply if appropriate policy frameworks are put into effect. Considering the two main energy forms that the country makes use of, namely, oil and electricity, several intersecting and sector-specific areas need to undergo drastic transformations.

Regarding electricity production, estimates for grid connection rate are at around 32% only, mainly supplying urban centres and excluding marginalized areas in the five Darfur states and Southern Kurdufan, which are supplied by isolated grids. However, measures taken to address the supply gap have been poorly thought of. From the execution of colonial blueprints of hydro plants with compromised social and environmental assessments. To the short-sighted response to the steadily increasing demand with additional thermal capacity with its proven environmental hazards and reliance on imported fuels. In addition to the deficit in installed capacity, the orthodoxy of central grids with its high cost of extension of the transmission grid leaves a significant number of users in the dark.

Production of oil and gas is not any better. The currently operating oil blocks produce around 70 barrels/day or an estimate of less than 20% of what was produced before the secession of South Sudan. Issues of technical dependence are best reflected in the ways with which Chinese and other foreign oil firms have been undermining the long-term sustainability of wells through accelerated production rates that maximize profits before end of contracts. Disregard for both the surrounding environment and the betterment of local communities has also been the norm despite the frequent expressions of discontent by these communities.Various strategies could be pursued to achieve a just energy transition. Initially, national strategies should consider local needs and input rather than relying solely on development agencies that often prioritize neoliberal reforms benefiting corporations and tech giants. Furthermore, instead of promoting urban consumerism, which contributes to the global climate crisis, efforts should prioritize providing electricity to off-grid populations and productive sectors.

Implementing a just energy transition framework in power generation could complement the current energy mix by integrating new renewable sources, utilizing the country’s abundant resources for both distributed and utility-scale generation. Whereas finance of a just transition can rely on a mix of local and international channels where more favorable social and environmental conditions are negotiated, the thing that can only take place under a publicly led and democratically managed institutional configurations.


ISTinaD members have expertise in various Energy Justice issues, and they critically engage with these through diverse knowledge formats available in our library.

Energy Justice program library