Sudan central bank eases terms for home solar loans amid power crisis

September 14, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The Central Bank of Sudan has ordered commercial banks to ease financing conditions for residential solar power systems, aiming to alleviate persistent electricity shortages exacerbated by conflict.

The central bank instructed lenders to extend repayment periods for solar loans to up to three years and waive all administrative banking fees.

Banks were also asked to accept flexible collateral arrangements, including direct salary deductions, and set up fast-track counters to speed up loan approvals.

Sudan’s power grid has suffered widespread collapse and frequent, prolonged blackouts across several states since conflict erupted in April 2023.

Skyrocketing fuel prices and generator maintenance costs have driven widespread reliance on solar panels and batteries for households and small businesses.

The central bank’s directive follows Prime Minister Kamil Idris’s decision three weeks ago to exempt imported solar equipment for personal use from customs duties and government taxes.