President Bio Commissions 1MW Solar Power Plant in Moyamba Funded by World Bank

 A new dawn for Moyamba Town as solar energy illuminates homes, businesses, and essential services, marking a turning point in Sierra Leone’s journey towards energy independence.

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the Ministry of Energy and with financing from the World Bank, commissioned a 1-megawatt solar power plant in Moyamba Town, Moyamba District.

This milestone, achieved under the Enhancing Sierra Leone Energy Access Project (ESLEAP), marks a significant leap forward in expanding access to sustainable and reliable energy in Sierra Leone.

The Moyamba Solar Power Plant—a 1 MW solar mini-grid with 2 megawatt-hour battery storage system— is a flagship achievement under the World Bank Group-financed Enhancing Sierra Leone Energy Access Project (ESLEAP) with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) as implementing partner on behalf of the Ministry of Energy.

ESLEAP aims to increase energy access across Sierra Leone through a dual approach: the installation of mini-grids in strategic communities and the deployment of stand-alone solar systems in schools and health facilities nationwide.

Sierra Leone continues to face significant energy challenges, with national electricity access rates at 37 percent and rural access as low as 6 percent. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, the ESLEAP project addresses this challenge by delivering cost-effective energy solutions to small towns and rural communities that would otherwise remain unconnected to the main grid.

“This project is a cornerstone of our national development strategy, and we are dedicated to replicating its success across the nation to achieve universal energy access. It’s more than just infrastructure; it’s an investment in the health, education, and economic prosperity of our communities, and a promise to leave no one behind in our journey towards a brighter future,” said President Bio.

“The commissioning of the Moyamba Solar Power Plant demonstrates the government’s unwavering commitment to providing clean, affordable, and reliable energy to the people of Sierra Leone,” stated Dr Kandeh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead and Chairman Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security (PI-CREF).

“Sierra Leone’s new energy story places greater reliance on renewable energy sources, particularly hydropower and solar photovoltaic technologies.”

“The World Bank is proud to partner with the Government of Sierra Leone on this transformative project,” said Abdu Muwonge, World Bank Country Manager for Sierra Leone. “Access to electricity is a fundamental driver of development, and ESLEAP is designed to unlock opportunities, improve public services, and empower communities throughout Sierra Leone.”

“UNOPS is dedicated to delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions that foster inclusive development,” said Silvia Gallo, UNOPS Director for West Africa Multi-Country Office. “The Moyamba Solar Power Plant is a powerful example of how renewable energy can drive positive change. We believe that such initiatives are crucial in the global transition towards cleaner energy sources, building a more sustainable future for all, and improving lives in Sierra Leone.”

The provision of power is key to supporting agribusinesses in Moyamba with direct and indirect job creation potential. In addition, the power plant has created an ecosystem of solar maintenance that has resulted in the training of about 50 women technicians by UNOPs.

The ESLEAP project is expected to deliver electricity access to approximately 3,000 households, 200 industrial and commercial businesses, and 700 health facilities and schools. By prioritising renewable energy, the project contributes to Sierra Leone’s sustainable development goals and climate commitments.

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