By: Mohamed Sahr
In partnership with Octopus Energy’s Generation Arm, Hollywood actor Iris Elba has announced the company’s first renewables project, which is to construct a wind farm on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone, accompanied by solar panels and battery storage. This mega investment announcement was made on day two of the World Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The conference seeks to unite governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to negotiate global climate strategies and policies.
Idris Elba said the company has submitted detailed plans to Sierra Leone’s government and aims to start construction of the wind farm—consisting of up to five turbines, complete with solar panels and battery storage—next year.
The wind farm would be located close to Bonthe, the island’s main town and hub of energy consumption, and land lease talks are underway. Once completed, it will generate clean power for around 2,000 homes on the island annually, boost the local economy, and power schools, medical facilities, and e-motorbikes.
Currently, only 5 percent of rural Sierra Leone has access to electricity. Elba expressed commitment to collaborating with Octopus Energy, stating that progress has been made for the implementation of the project. “We are building not just a wind farm but a foundation for sustainable growth and energy independence in Sierra Leone. The turbines scheduled for installation next year will stand as a powerful testament to our commitment to a cleaner, greener future for Sierra Leone and beyond.” Elba said.
He mentioned that the project would create new green jobs, team up with local universities to train young people in renewables, and offer employment opportunities to maintain the wind farm. He noted that the aim is to build new industries and future-proof skilled jobs for the next generation of Sierra Leoneans, where 42 percent of the population is under 15 years old. The job’s ripple effect will extend beyond the island, across roads, shipping, and more.
The wind farm would provide crucial data on local wind patterns and energy usage, helping unlock future renewable investments across Sierra Leone. This project will be the first of many as the partners look to scale renewables in the country.
He underscored that the project aligns with Sierra Leone’s ambitious goal of renewable 85 percent of its electricity by 2030. On Sherbro Island, in particular, the need for clean energy to tackle climate change is urgent, as the island is vulnerable to rising sea levels and intense rainfall.
Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation, said the achievement is a significant milestone as the company awaits to kick off its first renewables project in Sierra Leone. He added that the wind farm would expand energy access, generating clean power and job opportunities in the local economy and community. “Our insights will provide a blueprint to scale even more wind and solar farms. Partnering with Idris and his team, we’re committed to being part of Sierra Leone’s journey as a renewables leader – and this is just the beginning,” CEO North-Bond said.
