𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬. 𝐁𝐢𝐨 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭

By Mohamed Fofanah [email protected]

His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio yesterday launched the first Gas Power Generation Plant with the project poised to revolutionise Sierra Leone’s energy landscape, bringing reliable and affordable electricity to communities across the nation.
Speaking at the Kissy Fuel Terminal in Freetown, President Bio said this transformative Power Generation Project was a testament to the country’s vision for a sustainable and cleaner energy sector that ensures universal access to modern, affordable, and reliable energy services by 2035.
“Energy is the lifeblood of any modern society… it powers our homes, fuels our industries, and drives our country’s economic development and social progress,” said President Bio.
The president reiterated that for far too long, Sierra Leone has faced significant challenges in meeting its energy needs. “We continue to face inadequate access to affordable and reliable modern energy services.”
He said “Today, a new dawn is upon us as we take a decisive step to change that narrative. We are here to lay the foundation for a Power Generation Project that will provide our nation with reliable, affordable, cleaner and
sustainable energy.”
He added that the project is a transformative force; a beacon of hope, and a symbol of the country’s unwavering commitment to developing its energy sector socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable manner.
This project according to President Bio, heralded a new era of energy independence and prosperity for Sierra Leone,inspiring hope and excitement for a brighter future.
The 148.5mw Power Purchase Agreement for the Western Area Power Generation Project, signed by Cabinet in November 2023, and ratified by the Sierra Leone Parliament, was to construct and commission a 22-year Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)/Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Plant.
Once completed in 36 months, the project will play a crucial role in meeting Sierra Leone’s energy needs, a significant step towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.
The plant’s power was projected to benefit approximately 900,000 additional consumers, providing them with reliable and affordable energy.
Meanwhile, the Deputy CEO of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Nisha Biswal said “We are proud at DFC to play our role in bringing this project to life. We are proud that this power plant will nearly double the generation capacity of Sierra Leone.”
Ms. Biswal said the Development Finance Corporation was committed to the people of Africa while they are active around the world, making Sierra Leone one of their largest portfolios of investment.
Ms. Biswal also said such a critical and transformative project – one that allows not only for the generation of power but also expands other economic opportunities for the country, helping to bring in greater private investment from across the world into Sierra Leone.
The U.S. Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt said the United States government takes immense pride in its partnership with private sector sponsors as well as with the Government of Sierra Leone in capitalising on this project.
“We are thrilled that we will now begin construction on this facility, which will be completed within 36 months, said Ambassador Hunt.
Ambassador Hunt said the impact of this project will be profound, fueling progress, prosperity, and a brighter future for Sierra Leoneans,”
“With up to $412 million in financing a political risk insurance. We affirm our dedication to supporting the growth of Sierra Leone’s energy sector. The United States through its agencies and partnerships recognises the critical role that sustainable energy plays in economic development.”
“Energy is not just a commodity, it is the backbone of economic growth, health care improvement, educational advancement, and Sierra Leone’s broader development aspirations.”
“In recent years, the U.S. government has invested significantly in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. Our initiatives aimed to enhance the country’s infrastructure, facilitate Sierra Leone’s energy transition, promote the use of renewable energy sources, enhance technical expertise, create an environment conducive to private sector investment, and ensure that the benefits of energy access are broad and inclusive.”
Mr Hunt also said Sierra Leonean hospitals will add the reliable power they need to provide life-saving care around the clock. Businesses can thrive without interrupted power, fostering economic growth from the small business, providing meals for the community… an increase in power will give entrepreneurs a stronger chance to put their vision into action for the benefit of their neighbors. Schools and homes will benefit from consistent electricity enabling children study and learn in a conducive environment.”