By: Audrey Raymonda John
Infinitum Energy Group Waste to Energy SL Ltd, a leading global waste-to-energy producer, has announced plans to invest a significant $200 million in Sierra Leone’s energy sector through a large-scale waste-to-electricity project. The initiative is expected to generate 30 megawatts of power and create over 6,000 jobs nationwide.
Speaking at a press conference held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the Special Court premises in Freetown, the Country Director of Infinitum Energy Group, Dr. Yassin Kargbo, revealed that the investment vision was first shared with President Julius Maada Bio during his visit to the United States several years ago.
“President Bio welcomed the initiative and instructed relevant ministries to support us in bringing this project to life. Unfortunately, we’ve faced delays over the past four years due to bureaucratic challenges. We now call on the President to intervene and fast-track the process,” Dr. Kargbo urged.
Jonathan Rubin, the company’s Stakeholder Engagement and Community Development Strategist, highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative. “We are committed to turning waste into energy. Our goal is to produce 30 megawatts of power, which will be sold to the government at an affordable rate,” he said.
Rubin also emphasized the job creation potential, noting that the company’s waste collection unit alone is projected to generate over 6,000 jobs and process up to 1,000 tonnes of waste daily.
Kyle Newell, Lead on Impact Ventures at Impact Pathways a sustainability consultancy supporting Infinitum explained the broader environmental and social vision for the project.
“This project goes beyond power generation. It’s about building a full waste management ecosystem that provides environmental, economic, and social value,” Newell said. He noted that successful waste-to-energy models globally rely on a blended financing structure, where revenues are derived not only from electricity sales but also from waste collection and processing.
“In most countries, less than 10% of municipal waste has direct market value. That’s why structured support systems are essential to ensure long-term viability. The more operational costs recovered through waste management, the more affordable the electricity becomes,” Newell added.
He emphasized that IEG’s model aligns with global best practices, involving close collaboration with government entities, community stakeholders, and investors to build a sustainable and scalable solution.
“This initiative brings significant benefits: it will create jobs, reduce open dumping, improve air and water quality, and help mitigate flooding by keeping waste out of drains. This is about building a cleaner, more resilient Sierra Leone,” Newell concluded.
Infinitum Energy Group also announced plans to partner with Freetown City Council for urban waste collection and to expand operations to the Northern and Southern provinces.