President Julius Maada Bio, in collaboration with the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), the BIDC-EBID of ECOWAS, and other development partners, turned the sod for a new Gas Power Generation Plant at Kissy under the NANT Energy project. The event, held in the east of Freetown, Sierra Leone, marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance its electricity supply.
The ceremony was attended by key government stakeholders, U.S. partners, traditional leaders, and community members. The Gas Power Generation Plant aims to boost electricity supply in the Country, particularly in the eastern part of Freetown, and other regions, increasing capacity from 1.48 to 150 megawatts, according to officials.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer of DFC, Nisha Biswal, emphasized the United States’ commitment to a strong and steady partnership with Sierra Leone, initiated in 2022. “We are proud that this project and power plant will double the generation capacity of Sierra Leone,” Biswal stated. She highlighted the project’s potential to stabilize the grid and support additional energy projects, including wind, solar, and hydro, without destabilizing the system.
The new power infrastructure, Biswal noted, is essential for Sierra Leone’s economic growth and opportunities. She also mentioned the integration of the power project with existing projects, such as the expansion of SUMMA Airport, enhancing the country’s overall development.
Eldred Tunde Taylor, Deputy Minister of Energy 1, provided an overview of the project’s evolution. He recalled the visit by the U.S. DFC delegation on July 26, 2023, and the subsequent studies sponsored by the Government of Sierra Leone to address tariff increases and improve economic scale.
Taylor reiterated the significance of the Gas Power Generation Plant, noting the increase in capacity from 83-87 megawatts to 135 megawatts. He also mentioned the approval of a power purchase agreement by Parliament in November 2023, which included political risk insurance for the project.
Construction of the plant, which includes the installation of gas turbines, a new substation, and a pipeline for LPG delivery, is expected to take 24 to 30 months. The project also involves upgrading existing infrastructure, such as the 33kv substation from Kissy and the Wellington substation.
In his address, President Julius Maada Bio highlighted the importance of sustainable and universal access to electricity by 2035. “Energy is the backbone of any development in a society,” he remarked. The president emphasized that the completion of the energy power plant will play a crucial role in Sierra Leone’s energy sector and catalyze economic growth.
President Bio also stressed the importance of corporate social responsibility, urging stakeholders to employ local youths and disabled community members with the required skills.
The DFC has financed several critical projects, producing significant sustainable economic development results across various sectors, including agriculture, energy, healthcare, education, housing, water infrastructure, and microfinance. These projects are enhancing livelihoods, generating electricity, providing healthcare, educating students, constructing affordable homes, and offering financial access to millions.
The launch of the Gas Power Generation Plant at Kissy marks a significant step towards achieving reliable and sustainable energy for Sierra Leone, fostering economic growth and development in the country.