Sierra Leone is hoping to reach 218 MW of power generation this year with the completion of several renewable energy projects. Five years ago, the country’s total electricity generation was less than 15 MW; however, with government initiatives (Model African Leader Takes Charge of Power Woes), that figure has increased to over 90 MW.
Most recently, three off-grid solar PV plants totaling 53 kW were implemented in Bo, Kpandebu, and Pujehun thanks to Laos renewable energy firm Sunlabob. This year is also supposed to see the country’s first IPP come online, a biomass fueled power plant near Makeni. In addition, Sierra Leone announced a year ago that it would break ground for the construction of a small-scale hydropower plant on its Bankasoka River. India’s state run Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd. (Bhel) delivered electromechanical equipment for a 200-MW hydropower project and a 100-MW coal-based project on a turnkey basis.
The IMF forecasts sub-Saharan Africa will grow by around 5.5% in 2012 and include five of the world’s fastest growing economies including Sierra Leone at a projected 35% growth rate. Sierra Leone’s power generation goals are ambitious, but the country appears to be on the right path.
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