Harnessing Solar Energy for Sustainable Development in Rural Communities

Sudan’s rural regions face acute challenges in energy access, exacerbated by ongoing conflict that has destroyed major power infrastructure and crippled conventional electricity generation. This study investigates the technical and economic feasibility of photovoltaic (PV) solar systems as a sustainable alternative for powering off-grid rural communities. Using MATLAB simulations (Version 24b), Global Solar Atlas data, and HOMER software (Version 4.11) for hybrid system optimization, a case study of a village in Shariq al-Nil, Khartoum, demonstrates the viability of solar energy to meet residential, medical, and agricultural needs. Beyond technical analysis, this paper highlights the transformative role of solar energy in post-conflict reconstruction, with potential applications in powering irrigation systems and supporting agricultural livelihoods. It also emphasizes the importance of integrating community-centered policy frameworks to ensure equitable access, long-term adoption, and sustainable development outcomes. The findings advocate for policies that support renewable energy investment as a cornerstone of rebuilding efforts in Sudan and similar contexts affected by conflict and infrastructure collapse.