Washington, D.C., October 15, 2025— The Government of Sierra Leone has signed a landmark lease agreement with Release by Scatec to deploy a 40-megawatt (MW) fast-track power plant in Kamakwie, Karene District, aimed at strengthening the country’s electricity grid and boosting regional energy access.
The deal, facilitated through the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), will deliver a modular and containerized clean energy solution designed to meet the rising power demand in Sierra Leone and neighboring countries.
Hans Olav Kvalvaag, CEO of Release by Scatec, described the agreement as a breakthrough in renewable energy collaboration.
“Release by Scatec is very pleased with the strong partnership we have built with Sierra Leone. Their willingness to mobilise quickly to meet urgent energy needs, combined with our innovative solution, has been central to moving this project forward. We are committed to delivering clean, reliable electricity to communities across the country,” he said.
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Energy Governance Coordination Group, highlighted the importance of the project for rural and industrial growth.
“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,” he noted. “The Kamakwie site was chosen due to its strategic location and grid accessibility, enabling EGTC and EDSA to also sell power to the regional network.”
The lease runs for an initial five years, with options for extension or purchase beginning in year six. The modular design allows for expansion and the addition of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) to improve grid stability.
According to Dr. Yumkella, President Julius Maada Bio is expected to preside over the groundbreaking ceremony later this year.
Finance Minister Sheku Fantamadi Bangura emphasized the project’s alignment with Sierra Leone’s long-term energy strategy. “Signing the agreement with Release by Scatec marks a major milestone for the implementation of our Mission 300 compact. I extend deep gratitude to the IFC and World Bank for facilitating the project,” he said.
Mission 300 aims to deliver 1.17 gigawatts (GW) of new generation capacity by 2030. The Kamakwie power plant, expected to be commissioned by late 2026, will double Sierra Leone’s current solar output and reduce dependence on costly diesel generation.
EGTC Director General Ing. Milton Gegbai stressed the impact on the national grid. “This agreement marks a turning point for EGTC as we work to stabilize and expand our generation capacity. 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. We look forward to a successful partnership with Release by Scatec,” he stated.
With this deal, Sierra Leone’s renewable capacity rises to 167 MW, bringing the country closer to its clean energy targets while creating jobs and reducing operational costs in the energy sector.
