Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), has signed a significant lease agreement with renewable energy provider Release by Scatec for a 40 MW fast-track power plant.
The modular, containerized energy solution will be deployed in Kamakwie, Kerene District, North West Sierra Leone.
The project, delivered via an innovative leasing model, aims to play a critical role in stabilizing Sierra Leone’s national grid and strengthening regional energy access. The initial lease term is set for five years, with options for extension or purchase starting in year six.
The 40 MW addition will bring Sierra Leone’s total renewable energy capacity to 167 MW, effectively doubling the nation’s current solar output by 2026. The plant is expected to be commissioned by the second or third quarter of 2026.
The Kamakwie site was strategically selected for its location and grid accessibility, which will allow EGTC and EDSA to sell power to the regional network.
The plant’s modular design enables future expansion and the integration of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to further enhance grid stability and renewable energy integration.
The project is also anticipated to reduce reliance on costly diesel generation, lower operational costs, and create local employment opportunities during its construction and operation.
The Kamakwie power plant aligns with Sierra Leone’s ambitious Mission 300 initiative, which targets delivering 1.17 GW of new generation capacity by 2030.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordination Group, called the partnership a “significant milestone” in addressing urgent energy needs in the provinces for industrial development and improved quality of life. Dr. Yumkella also noted that His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio is expected to do the groundbreaking for the construction later this year.
Hon. Sheku Fantamadi Bangura, Minister of Finance, stated that signing the agreement “marks a major milestone for the implementation of our Mission 300 compact,” and extended gratitude to the IFC and World Bank for facilitating the project.
Hans Olav Kvalvaag, CEO of Release by Scatec, expressed pleasure with the collaboration, highlighting Sierra Leone’s willingness to mobilize quickly to meet urgent energy needs.
Ing. Milton Gegbai, Director General of EGTC, remarked that the agreement “marks a turning point for EGTC as we work to stabilize and expand our generation capacity,” emphasizing that the plant will provide critical support to the national grid and help meet growing electricity demand.
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