By Sallieu S. Kanu
Sierra Leone – April 11, 2026: The Ministry of Energy has announced the arrival of the first turbine and generator for the Nant Power Project, marking a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s drive to expand electricity generation capacity.
The shipment underscores the government’s commitment to delivering reliable, affordable, and accessible electricity, in line with President Julius Maada Bio’s strategic vision for the energy sector.
The Nant Power Project reached financial close in November 2024, securing USD 292 million in debt financing from the United States International Development Finance Corporation and USD 40 million from the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development. Equity contributions of USD 85 million were made by TCQ Power and Anergi Group.
The project is Sierra Leone’s first large-scale independent power plant and will be the first dual-fuel facility in the Mano River Union, capable of running on both gas and fuel. Construction is underway at Kissy Terminal in Freetown.
When completed, the 108.4MW plant will nearly double Sierra Leone’s electricity generation capacity, providing reliable baseload power under a 22-year Power Purchase Agreement with the Government of Sierra Leone and the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).
Abu Kamara, General Manager of the Nant Power Project, confirmed that first power from the facility is expected in the third quarter of 2027.
The Ministry of Energy reiterated its commitment to pursuing the government’s overall policy objective of expanding energy access and strengthening infrastructure. The arrival of the turbine and generator signals tangible progress toward transforming Sierra Leone’s energy landscape and meeting growing demand for electricity.