In a landmark ceremony today, Sierra Leone’s Hon Vice President, Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, officially launched the Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPlTE) in Newton Waterloo. This flagship renewable energy initiative, boasting an ambitious 52-megawatt capacity, is set to revolutionise the region’s energy landscape, enhance economic growth, and foster sustainable development.
Representing President Julius Maada Bio, Vice President Jalloh emphasised the project's significance, stating, “This project is significant for the country and for the region. It aligns with the government’s commitment to ensuring access to clean, affordable energy for all.” He also highlighted the solar power initiative as a central component of Sierra Leone's broader energy transition strategy, underscoring the vital role of reliable energy in fueling economic progress. “Electricity is vital for growth. We need power to run businesses, to keep food fresh, to drive production, and ultimately to sustain livelihoods,” he added.
The RESPlTE project marks the beginning of Sierra Leone's energy transformation, with plans to add an additional 95 MW of power over the next 18 months. The government, backed by international partners such as the World Bank, is focused on shifting from traditional energy sources to sustainable, renewable alternatives. Dr. Kandeh K. Yumkella, Chairman of the EGCG, echoed the Vice President's sentiment, calling the launch “the end of the beginning” of a broader energy shift. He emphasised that future projects would contribute an additional 95 MW, setting Sierra Leone on a path to secure, clean energy. “This is the beginning of a new energy future for Sierra Leone,” Dr. Yumkella declared. “We are committed to achieving a clean and secure energy future for all.”
Dr. Elfred Tunde Taylor, Deputy Minister of Energy, hailed the project as a step toward addressing historical energy injustices, particularly for remote communities that have long lacked access to reliable electricity. “This is not just a project; it’s a transformation,” he said, extending his gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, development partners, and local communities for their support.
The contractor representative for the RESPlTE project provided details on the project’s timeline and scope, confirming that it would be completed in 12 months. The project will include the installation of a 37.5 MW DC solar PV power plant, a 22 MW-hour battery storage system at Newton, and additional infrastructure in Lungi. The contractor appreciated the government, the World Bank, and other funding partners for their invaluable support, reaffirming their commitment to delivering the project on time and to the highest standards.
The ceremony also saw participation from Hassan E. Conteh, Headman of Kpowbu Village, who expressed profound gratitude for the project’s impact on his community. Drawing inspiration from the Book of Genesis, he remarked, “In the beginning, the earth was full of darkness, and then God said, ‘Let there be light,’” highlighting the transformative effect the solar power project will have in bringing light to his village.
With the groundbreaking of the RESPlTE project, Sierra Leone is taking a crucial step toward achieving energy security, economic development, and a sustainable future for all its citizens. Vice President Jalloh concluded, “This is the beginning of a new chapter for our country—a future where every community has access to light, opportunity, and growth.”
Aminata Turay
Office of the Vice President
099776914
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