Freetown, Thursday, 16 October 2025: Sierra Leone has taken a major step toward energy sovereignty with the signing of a landmark lease agreement between the Government and Release by Scatec for the deployment of a 40MW fast-track power plant in Kamakwie, Karene District.
Energy Sector Lead, Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, hailed the agreement as a breakthrough in the country’s energy transformation journey, aligning with the ambitious Mission 300 initiative, which aims to deliver 1.7GW of new generation capacity by 2030.
“This partnership is a significant milestone in Government’s efforts to address urgent energy needs in the provinces, particularly for industrial development and improved quality of life,” Dr. Yumkella stated. He emphasized Kamakwie’s strategic location and grid accessibility, which will enable EGTC and EDSA to distribute power across the regional network.
The project, expected to be commissioned by the second quarter of 2026, will be delivered through an innovative leasing model. It features a modular, containerized energy solution that is clean, reliable, and rapidly deployable—tailored to meet the fast-growing energy demands of emerging markets.
Finance Minister Fantamadi Bangura described the agreement as a major milestone for the implementation of the Mission 300 Compact. He expressed gratitude to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the World Bank for facilitating the deal, noting that the 40MW addition will raise Sierra Leone’s total renewable energy capacity to 167MW and double the country’s solar output by 2026.
Scatec CEO Hans Olav Kvalvaag commended Sierra Leone’s swift mobilization and commitment to addressing urgent energy needs. “We are committed to supporting Sierra Leone’s efforts by helping the country deliver clean, reliable electricity to communities across the country,” he said.
President Julius Maada Bio is expected to officiate the groundbreaking ceremony later this year.
The Kamakwie plant is projected to provide critical support to the national grid, reduce generation shortfalls, and meet the growing demand for electricity nationwide. Release by Scatec, a majority-owned subsidiary of Scatec, specializes in delivering affordable and sustainable power through pre-financed, modular, and re-deployable solar PV and battery energy storage systems.
As Sierra Leone continues to align its energy reforms with the Feed Salone agenda, this development marks a pivotal moment in the country’s pursuit of energy independence and inclusive growth.
By Austine Luseni, Communications Specialist – Ministry of Energy