By Davida Spaine-Solomon
Freetown, 4th November 2025- Sierra Leone’s energy sector is set for a major upgrade, with the Ministry of Energy announcing a strategic partnership with Global South Utilities (GSU), a United Arab Emirates–based company, to deliver an additional 60 megawatts of power by early 2026.
Deputy Minister I of Energy, Ing. Edmond Nonie, confirmed the development in an exclusive interview, describing the initiative as a critical step toward stabilizing electricity supply and expanding access nationwide.
“This is a transformative moment,” Nonie said. “We’re moving from 16 megawatts to at least 60 megawatts in just over a year and that means more homes, businesses, and public services will have reliable power.”
Solar Expansion and Battery Storage- The new energy capacity will be driven by solar and battery installations in Newton and Lungi. GSU has committed to supplying 25 to 27 megawatts of battery storage for the ongoing 40-megawatt solar project, along with an additional 14 megawatts to complete the system’s full capacity. The company will also provide batteries to enhance the existing 6-megawatt Newton solar plant.
A Memorandum of Understanding is expected to be signed in November, with installation slated for completion by March or April 2026. GSU, which has delivered over 2,000 megawatts of renewable energy projects globally, will supply power at a low tariff, to be distributed by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).
Infrastructure Upgrades- In addition to boosting generation, GSU will replace three aging transformers at Kingtom and support the rehabilitation of the 161kV transmission line from Bumbuna to Freetown — a move expected to improve voltage stability, especially during the dry season when hydroelectric output declines.
The Ministry has also completed repairs on generators at Kingtom and is finalizing work at Blackhall Road, while maximizing supply from the CLSG power line connecting Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea.
Public Confidence and Reform- Deputy Minister Nonie emphasized that the reforms are part of a broader strategy to modernize the sector and restore public confidence.
“We’ve worked closely with EDSA to identify and fix gaps,” he said. “This partnership is about results not politics. When people return home after work, they deserve light.”
The Ministry’s goal, he added, is to make electricity a dependable part of daily life for Sierra Leoneans, powered by innovation, international collaboration, and a commitment to long-term sustainability.
