(JUBA) – Juba Military Hospital has officially launched a new 150 kWp solar photovoltaic system supported by a 217.62 kWh battery storage unit, in a development expected to transform energy supply in one of South Sudan’s most important healthcare facilities.
The project was implemented by Aptech Africa Limited in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Global Fund initiative. It was inaugurated this week in Juba at a ceremony attended by hospital officials, government representatives, and international partners.
The hospital serves members of the armed forces and the wider civilian population and has for years depended almost entirely on diesel-powered generators. With limited fuel supplies, electricity was often restricted, particularly during night hours. This posed severe challenges to patient care and hospital operations, including surgical procedures and storage of medical supplies.
The introduction of solar power with a battery bank is expected to ease these difficulties by providing reliable and sustainable electricity. Hospital managers say the move will reduce dependence on diesel, cut operational costs and improve patient outcomes.
| System Details | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Solar PV | 150 kWp |
| Battery Storage | 217.62 kWh |
| Diesel Use Reduction | Significant |
| Project Partners | Aptech Africa, UNDP Global Fund |
In a statement, Aptech Africa said the system was designed to meet the hospital’s demanding requirements around the clock.
“From site preparation to commissioning, our team worked closely with local partners to deliver a system that meets the hospital’s operational needs both day and night,” the company noted. “We are proud to contribute to a project that not only saves lives but also sets a benchmark for renewable energy in healthcare across the region.”
For South Sudan, where electricity supply is unreliable and largely dependent on generators, the project represents an important example of renewable energy application in healthcare. It comes at a time when energy costs continue to strain both public institutions and private households. At the official exchange rate of 4,600 SSP to one US dollar, a litre of diesel currently costing about 4,600 SSP ($1) represents a significant burden on hospital budgets.