Are there mini-grids in South Sudan?

Several companies have developed and operate mini-grids in South Sudan, as summarised in Annex 4. Data on type, number of end users, and retail tarifs were unavail-able for all companies apart from SunGate Solar.

Is finance a barrier to developing a mini-grid supply chain in South Sudan?

The lack of access to finance was identified as a critical barrier to developing the of-grid and mini-grid supply chain in South Sudan. One of the respondents in the study reported that financial institutions charge high interest rates, up to 22%, thus making it unattractive to borrow money to expand business activities.

What is the South Sudan off-grid market?

Developing the of-grid products supply chain and product line The South Sudan off-grid market is dominated by non-specialised vendors and retailers who sell other products, including off-grid products. Most of the products are not quality-verified, nor do they receive any incentives to target end-users who cannot aford a one-time upfront payment.

Who makes solar panels in South Sudan?

The largest market is in Juba state. Incorporated in South Sudan in June 2012 and are based in Juba, from where they supply products across the country. Quality-verified batteries, solar panels, and inverters from the following manufacturers: Batteries: Deka, Rolls Solar Panels: Suntech, AFR Inverters: Magnum, Growatt, Fronius.

What are the barriers to developing the solar sector in South Sudan?

Another impediment to developing the of-grid solar sector in South Sudan is the limited capacity of technicians to install, maintain and repair the solar systems (Mozersky & Kammen, 2018).

Are solar devices a problem in South Sudan?

The second hurdle is the lack of awareness, with 8% of urban and rural populations reporting a lack of knowledge about solar devices. The third barrier to greater penetration of solar devices in South Sudan is poor consumer perceptions of solar product quality.