In a press release dated 10 May 2023, the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), in collaboration with the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), announced plans to conduct routine annual maintenance on the Bumbuna Hydro Electric Power Dam.
The maintenance activity is scheduled to commence on Monday, May 13th, 2024, at 07:00hrs, and conclude on May 23rd, 2024, at 15:00hrs.
According to a statement released by the authorities, the contractor responsible for the operation of the dam, “We Build,” along with EGTC, will temporarily shut down the hydro plant to conduct essential maintenance tasks. The purpose of this shutdown is to ensure the effective operation of the dam during the rainy season and to extend its lifespan.
During the maintenance period, which spans ten days, power supply from Bumbuna to Makeni, Magburaka, and Freetown will be suspended. This interruption in the supply chain is expected to impact residents, particularly those in Makeni and Magburaka.
In light of this disruption, the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority has assured the public that Karpowership, an alternative power source, will increase its generated capacity to compensate for the shutdown of the Bumbuna dam. Freetown will continue to receive electricity supply from the Karpowership throughout the maintenance period.
Expressing regret for any inconvenience caused, the Authority has called on consumers to exercise patience during this period of disruption.
They have also reassured affected residents of a stable, reliable, and sustainable electricity supply upon the completion of the maintenance activity.
