Sudan stands at a pivotal juncture in its energy landscape, as highlighted in a recent study published in ‘Engineering Reports’. The research, led by Ihab Jabbar Al‐Rikabi from the Department of Building Physics at Bauhaus-University Weimar, underscores the urgent need for the country to shift from its heavy reliance on petroleum for electricity generation to a more diversified and sustainable energy mix.
Currently, hydropower accounts for over half of Sudan’s electricity, generating approximately 54.6%. However, the other renewable sources contribute a mere 0.78% to the national grid. This stark contrast reveals a significant opportunity for growth. “Sudan is endowed with abundant resources, particularly solar energy, yet we have only scratched the surface of our potential,” Al‐Rikabi notes. The country’s solar energy potential is immense, yet only one 10-MW solar PV plant has been constructed, with plans for additional projects underway.
The government aims to boost solar capacity dramatically, with a target of 2,190 MW of grid-connected solar PV and 50 MW of solar thermal energy by 2035. This ambitious plan could not only reduce the environmental impact of energy production but also create substantial commercial opportunities for the construction sector. The development of solar infrastructure will necessitate increased investment in construction services, equipment, and skilled labor, fostering economic growth and job creation.
Wind energy, another underutilized resource, has seen minimal deployment, with just one 0.8-MW wind turbine currently operational. However, a 100-MW wind power plant is under construction, and the government envisions a total wind capacity of 1,550 MW by 2035. This expansion presents a significant opportunity for construction companies specializing in renewable energy projects, as they can play a crucial role in bringing these developments to fruition.
Additionally, the bioenergy sector, primarily driven by the sugar industry, has a current capacity of 199 MW, with plans to expand to 270 MW by 2032. The integration of bioenergy into Sudan’s energy mix could further stimulate the construction industry, especially in the development of facilities and infrastructure necessary for bioenergy production.
While geothermal energy remains untapped, with plans for 54 MW of projects by 2030, and a nuclear energy program targeting two 600-MW reactors, the potential for diversification is clear. “The future of Sudan’s energy sector lies in embracing a variety of renewable sources,” Al‐Rikabi emphasizes. This diversification is not only critical for sustainability but is also a catalyst for economic development.
As Sudan moves towards a more sustainable energy future, the implications for the construction sector are profound. The shift towards renewables will require innovative construction methods, sustainable materials, and a skilled workforce to meet the demands of new energy projects. This transformation could position Sudan as a leader in renewable energy within Africa, attracting foreign investment and expertise.
The research by Al‐Rikabi highlights a crucial moment for Sudan, where the convergence of environmental necessity and economic opportunity could reshape the country’s energy landscape. For more insights into this transformative research, you can visit the Department of Building Physics at Bauhaus-University Weimar.
