By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone’s proposed US$200 million Waste-to-Energy Project has taken a significant step toward implementation after an international team of engineers confirmed its technical feasibility following an extensive assessment across Freetown and the Western Area.
The assessment was led by Infinitum Energy Group in collaboration with engineers from Belgium-based De Smet. The team inspected major dumpsites, industrial and agricultural waste sources, the proposed 60-acre project site in Hastings, the Queen Elizabeth II Quay, and the Jui Substation to determine whether the country possesses the infrastructure and waste supply required to support a 30-megawatt waste-to-energy power plant.
According to the assessment, the team confirmed that more than 1,200 tonnes of municipal solid waste can be collected daily sufficient to sustain the facility once it becomes operational.
Speaking on the outcome of the technical mission, Dr. Yassin Kargbo, Country Director of Infinitum Energy Group, described the successful assessment as a major milestone in the project’s development. He said the initiative is now awaiting the completion of contractual processes and parliamentary ratification before construction can commence.
In addition to generating 30 megawatts of electricity, the project is expected to ease pressure on overflowing dumpsites, improve environmental sanitation, create hundreds of employment opportunities, attract private sector investment, and support community development through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Once completed, the Waste-to-Energy Plant is expected to transform Sierra Leone’s waste management system by converting solid waste into a reliable source of clean, renewable energy. The project is also expected to contribute to the country’s energy security, stimulate economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability, while supporting the Government of Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to expand access to affordable and sustainable electricity.