In 2020 Power Leone signed an MOU with the Government of Sierra Leone to construct and operate 40 solar mini-grid sites with 1.4 MW capacity across rural Sierra Leone. In 2024, Sierra Leone is constructing and commissioning 17 of these mini-grid sites (800 kW). This work is made possible with the support of Sustainable Energy 4 All’s Universal Energy Facility.
Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – The Parliament of Sierra Leone has ratified two key agreements to generate and supply renewable energy to the communities of Lungi and Waterloo. The agreements, which were tabled on November 22, 2024, will pave the way for a significant boost in energy production through solar power projects in these areas.
The approved projects include a 15-30 megawatt solar grid connection for Waterloo and Samuel Town, as well as a 65-megawatt solar plant with battery storage facilities for Lungi. In addition to energy generation, the Lungi project will involve the rehabilitation of the Lungi playing field and the construction of access roads within the township, according to the Deputy Minister of Energy I.
Chairman of the Energy Committee, Hon. Kekurah Vandi, highlighted the country’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels, particularly diesel and petrol, which are not environmentally sustainable. He emphasized that with the full implementation of these agreements, Lungi and Waterloo will become hubs for clean, renewable energy, marking a significant step towards reducing Sierra Leone''s carbon footprint.
"The Lungi project will be a game-changer for the people of Kaffu Bullom and will finally end the longstanding energy crisis in Waterloo," Hon. Vandi stated. He also pointed out the ongoing challenge of electricity distribution, citing that even if 1,000 megawatts were available at King Tom, parts of eastern Freetown would still struggle with connectivity.
Opposition Chief Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara from the All People’s Congress (APC) welcomed the agreements and encouraged Parliament to extend similar renewable energy initiatives to other districts. He also called for future investments in marine energy and urged the government to open up the sector for private investors.
“We cannot solve Sierra Leone''s energy crisis if we continue to rely solely on government institutions,” Hon. Kamara argued.
Hon. Rebecca Yei Kamara of Kono District echoed support for the agreements and emphasized the vast potential for renewable energy investments in Sierra Leone, noting the country’s natural resources.
"Sierra Leone has abundant sources of renewable energy—whether it’s water, sunlight, or wind. We should shift from fossil fuels and fully embrace cleaner alternatives," she urged.
The ratified agreements represent a critical step towards diversifying Sierra Leone''s energy portfolio and advancing its commitment to sustainable development. SEG/27/11/2024
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In June 2018, Karpowership signed a contract with Sierra Leone''s national utility company, Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), the Ministry of Energy (MOE), and the Ministry of Finance (MOF) to deploy a Powership with 30 MW capacity. Later in 2018, the capacity was increased to 50 MW, followed by another increase in 2020 to provide 65 MW capacity. Karpowership has been operational in the country since 2018 and supplying 80% of Sierra Leone''s total electricity demand.
The Parliament of Sierra Leone on November 25, 2024, ratified several agreements to advance solar electrification projects in Waterloo and Lungi, aimed at boosting renewable energy and economic development. The approved agreements include:
Power Purchase and Implementation Agreements for a 15-30 MW solar power project in Waterloo, managed by Waterloo Innovent Solar Park (WISP) Limited.
Power Purchase, Interconnection, and Connection Agreements for a 65 MW solar plant with battery storage in Lungi, under Lungi Power Development.
Key Highlights from the Agreements:
Projects will operate under Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangements, transferring ownership to the government upon completion.
Tariffs will start at 12 cents per kilowatt-hour, lower than the current 18 cents, with further reductions expected.
Lungi''s project includes commitments to upgrade the Mini Stadium and two local bridges as part of corporate social responsibility.
Deputy Minister of Energy’s Remarks:
Dr. Eldred Taylor described the agreements as transformative, addressing sustainable electricity needs, reducing environmental challenges, and fostering economic growth. He emphasized the inclusion of battery storage for reliable power distribution and highlighted the affordability of the projects for citizens.
Hon. Keikura C. Vandy noted the projects would resolve energy distribution issues in Waterloo and bring significant benefits to Kaffu Bullum in Lungi.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara lauded the public-private partnership model and emphasized replicating it nationwide to promote renewable energy and reduce costs.
Hon. Rebecca Yei Kamara underscored the projects’ ability to enhance food preservation and attract further investment.
Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma described the projects as essential for climate adaptation and called for improvements in electricity supply for Lungi.
Both ruling and opposition MPs commended the agreements for their developmental impact. Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, called for robust parliamentary oversight to ensure successful implementation.
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