Abstract

This study investigates the transition to solar energy use in the agricultural sector in River Nile State and its economic and environmental impacts through an applied study of the northern part of Al-Matamma Locality, Sudan, covering the period up to the middle of 2026. The study aimed to identify the main drivers of the transition to solar energy, examine its patterns of use in the agricultural sector, and assess its contribution to meeting current energy demands as an alternative to grid electricity and fossil fuels. It also sought to evaluate the environmental impacts of this transition, particularly its role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental pollution, while identifying the major challenges and constraints hindering the wider adoption of solar energy in the study area. The study employed a combination of research methods, approaches, and data collection tools to obtain reliable data for hypothesis testing and the achievement of the research objectives. Both descriptive and analytical methods were adopted to collect, describe, and analyze the relevant data, enabling the development of scientifically sound and logically supported conclusions. The findings revealed that the use of solar energy in economic activities is overwhelmingly concentrated in the agricultural sector, which relies heavily on private ownership and investment. The results further demonstrated that solar energy is a clean and environmentally sustainable energy source that contributes to improving air quality in both urban and rural areas by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental pollutants. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening investment in the agricultural sector through the wider adoption of solar energy, given its proven contribution to enhancing agricultural productivity. It also recommends implementing customs duty exemptions for solar energy equipment, providing concessional loans and favorable credit facilities, supporting domestic manufacturing of solar energy technologies, and encouraging national investment in the renewable energy sector. These measures would contribute to promoting economic development and achieving long-term environmental sustainability.