Sierra Leone’s energy regulatory body has extended an invitation to the public for feedback regarding a potential rise in electricity tariffs. The proposal, submitted by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) to the regulator for approval, suggests an increase of up to 100 percent.
EDSA justifies this request by pointing to elevated fuel expenses and higher procurement costs from independent power producers.
The Sierra Leone Energy and Water Regulation Commission (SLEWRC) announced on Monday that there will be a designated period for public comments on the proposed tariff adjustments.
This feedback window will remain open from August 29th to September 12th, 2023.
In discussions with the Chief Minister, the Minister of Energy, Alhaji Kanja Sesay, highlighted that the current tariff rates do not align with the current exchange rate.
He revealed that the government has expended approximately US$13 million this year alone to subsidize energy costs for Sierra Leonean consumers. In the previous year, the government provided subsidies amounting to over 700 billion Leones. These efforts are aimed at alleviating the financial burden of energy tariffs on consumers.
