Switching Sudan’s Power Generation Units’ Fuel to Natural Gas Enhances the Efficiency, Durability and Lower the Cost

Abstract

Sudan ranks among the top 20 Sub-Saharan countries facing electricity shortages, affecting approximately 20 million people as of 2020. Political and economic instability led to an increase in the electricity deficit, reaching over 62% in 2021, an 8% rise from 2019. Thermal power stations in Sudan, which contribute 37% of the electricity supply, encounter operational, maintenance, and fuel procurement challenges. They rely on various fuels, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), light diesel oil (LDO), and heavy fuel oil (HFO), with fuel procurement difficulties amid declining oil production. This study explores the potential of using natural gas instead of the conventional crude oil-based fuels listed above. Natural gas is known for its cost-effectiveness and lower greenhouse gas emissions, offering a cleaner alternative. The study involves the calculation of total gas volumes, flared gas, and operational costs for diesel and natural gas, with an evaluation of their compatibility with the operational requirements of thermal power generation units. The study reveals that upgrading existing thermal stations to a combined cycle system and transitioning to natural gas can reduce costs by 52% compared to diesel operations. The study also demonstrates that the annual gas requirement for operations is approximately 245 billion cubic feet, which is higher than the local production, indicating the need for importing liquified natural gas (LNG).