The Minister of Energy, Hon. Cyril Arnold Grant, has described the recently commissioned 30MW and 10MW solar power plants in Newton and Lungi as a decisive shift toward renewable energy that is more cost-effective, reliable, affordable, and sustainable on SLBC Morning Coffee Programme, New England, Freetown, Friday, 12 June 2026.
Speaking on SLBC’s Morning Coffee programme on Friday, the Minister reaffirmed his commitment to keeping the public informed on developments in the energy sector.
Addressing the strategic, social, commercial, and economic importance of the combined 40MW solar installations, Hon. Grant said communities around Newton, including Fogbo, Waterloo, and Mile 6, will benefit significantly from the improved electricity supply. He noted that enhanced power access will improve livelihoods and stimulate social and economic activity in these areas.
He further explained that Lungi, which hosts Sierra Leone’s international airport and is expected to host a major international conference centre, will benefit from the 10MW solar installation. According to him, the project will strengthen the town’s infrastructure and reduce dependence on an unreliable thermal generator.
The Minister added that the benefits of the two solar facilities extend beyond their immediate locations. He said the Newton plant will also contribute to the national grid and help stabilize electricity supply in Freetown.
On recent power supply challenges in Freetown and parts of the northern region, which were caused by reduced generation from the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Dam, Hon. Grant said he was pleased to report that maintenance work on the dam is nearing completion. He added that a gradual and steady restoration of electricity generation from Bumbuna has already begun.
He also provided an update on the NANT Power Project, noting that it is at an advanced stage of implementation. He said that upon completion of its first phase, the project is expected to begin generating electricity in the first quarter of 2027.
The Minister further highlighted ongoing investments in the energy sector, including the Mission 300 initiative, mini-grid expansion, and the planned upgrading of the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Dam. He said these projects form part of the government’s long-term strategy to expand electricity access and improve reliability nationwide.
He concluded by appealing to citizens to support the sector by avoiding illegal electricity connections and refraining from vandalism of energy infrastructure.
He emphasized that the energy sector is closely linked to the government’s Feed Salone agenda, with ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening national development.