- Sudan has removed customs duties on solar energy systems to lower import costs and encourage wider adoption.
- The policy comes as prolonged blackouts continue to disrupt electricity supply across several parts of the country.
Sudan has announced a full exemption of customs duties on solar energy systems as the country seeks to expand alternative power sources amid a severe electricity crisis. The Customs Force Media Department announced the decision on August 4.
Authorities said the measure will encourage wider adoption of solar energy. It will also reduce costs for importers and investors. The decision follows public criticism over charges on imported solar equipment.
Several parts of Sudan continue to experience prolonged power outages. Affected areas include Khartoum, Northern State and River Nile State.
A fire at the Merowe Dam hydroelectric plant worsened the crisis. The incident damaged major transmission lines and forced the facility to stop operating. The damage triggered widespread blackouts across affected areas.
The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum said it had partially restored electricity to critical facilities and some residential areas in Khartoum. The ministry also expects replacement parts for the damaged hydroelectric facility to arrive soon.
Authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.
Meanwhile, the Electricity Regulatory Authority defended technical and inspection fees previously imposed on solar equipment. The authority said the fees help prevent substandard solar products from entering the Sudanese market. The new customs exemption now removes the duties that increased the cost of importing solar energy systems.
Sudan expects the measure to support greater investment in renewable energy as the country continues to face electricity supply challenges. The policy could improve access to solar power for households, businesses and other electricity users affected by unreliable grid supply.