Sudan: Solar as an alternative energy source is too expensive
Fighting between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has strained an already weak power infrastructure, forcing many Sudanese to seek solar energy sources as an alternative amid recurring blackouts.
The ongoing fighting between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has strained an already weak power infrastructure, forcing many Sudanese to seek solar energy sources as an alternative amid recurring blackouts, according to AP on September 6th.
As heatwaves persist during recent months, the number of billboards advertising solar panels, batteries and inverters has increased in Khartoum.
Mohey Eddin Abu-Bark, an owner of a solar systems business in Khartoum, revealed that a typical household 10-kilowatt solar system costs nearly $5,000, which not everyone can afford.
The cost of solar panels also harms the healthcare industry. Medication has become unavailable as not all pharmacies can afford to install solar panels for medical storage.
Additionally, the Sudan Doctors’ Network warned that patients in hospitals could be impacted by continued electricity cuts, especially kidney patients who need constant care.
The electricity problem is exacerbated by attacks on medical centres and power stations. On March 4th, a drone attack targeted the city’s main power station, causing a widespread blackout and disrupting electricity supplies.
Between January 2025 and April 2026, attacks on healthcare facilities across Sudan deprived 762,000 people of access to healthcare.
The attacks have also impacted healthcare and aid workers. According to Maghrebi.org, more than 450 attacks on humanitarian workers and assets were reported from January to July 2026.
Sudan’s Humanitarian Coordinator, Denise Brown, warned that aid workers are being detained by “non-state armed groups”.
In May, it was reported that both opposition-linked forces and the government were weaponising humanitarian aid for military and political reasons in South Sudan.
Health risks are increased by the disruption of medical supplies, including a cholera outbreak that killed 120 people.
On September 4th, the Trump Administration announced the US is urgently pressing for a humanitarian truce in Sudan to allow unhindered aid access and increased assistance to vulnerable people.
Whilst a truce ensures lifesaving aid reaches those who need it urgently, the current energy crisis and the expensive alternative are equally pressing issues.
Healthcare facilities such as hospitals and pharmacies need reliable electricity sources to preserve medicine, operate essential medical equipment and provide continuous care to patients.
Without reliable electricity and affordable alternatives, attacks on infrastructure and recurring power cuts will continue to undermine healthcare access and place already vulnerable populations at greater risk.
AP, Maghrebi.org
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