Freetown, 15th October 2025 — The Government of Sierra Leone has signed a landmark lease agreement with Release by Scatec, a global renewable energy provider, to deploy a 40-megawatt fast-track solar power plant in Kamakwie, Karene District. The deal, facilitated through the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), marks a major step toward stabilizing the national grid and expanding access to clean energy in the country’s northwest region.
The project, which will be delivered through an innovative modular leasing model, is designed to meet the urgent energy demands of emerging markets. It features containerized solar units that are rapidly deployable, scalable, and capable of integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to enhance grid reliability.
“This partnership is a significant milestone in the Government’s efforts to address urgent energy needs in the provinces, particularly for industrial development and improved quality of life,” said Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordination Group. “Kamakwie was selected for its strategic location and grid accessibility, which also enables EGTC and EDSA to sell power to the regional network.”
The initial lease spans five years, with options for extension or purchase beginning in year six. Construction is expected to break ground later this year, with commissioning anticipated by the second or third quarter of 2026.
The project aligns with Sierra Leone’s ambitious Mission 300 initiative, which aims to deliver 1.17 gigawatts of new generation capacity by 2030. The 40MW addition will bring the country’s total renewable energy capacity to 167MW, effectively tripling its current solar output and reducing reliance on costly diesel generators.
“Signing this agreement marks a major milestone for the implementation of the Mission 300 compact,” said Minister of Finance Sheku Fantamadi Bangura. “We are grateful to the IFC and World Bank for their support in making this project possible.”
Hans Olav Kvalvaag, CEO of Release by Scatec, praised the collaboration:
“Sierra Leone’s willingness to mobilize quickly to meet urgent energy needs, combined with our innovative solution, has been central to moving this project forward. We’re committed to delivering clean, reliable electricity to communities across the country.”
EGTC Director General Ing. Milton Gegbai described the agreement as a turning point:
“The Kamakwie plant will provide critical support to our national grid, reduce generation shortfalls, and help us meet the growing demand for electricity across Sierra Leone.”
The project is expected to create local jobs during construction and operation, while lowering operational costs and boosting energy security.
