Despite a significant reduction in supply from Karpowership, which has scaled back its output to just 5.6MW—reserved for essential institutions, Sierra Leone’s energy sector has exceeded expectations, delivering over 56MW of electricity to Freetown as of 6:00 AM today.
In a briefing from the energy situation room, it was confirmed that contingency measures activated in response to the Karpowership shutdown have functioned effectively, ensuring continuity of supply across the capital.
Key contributors to this achievement include: Bumbuna Hydroelectric Power Plant: 18.6MW, CLSG (Côte d’Ivoire–Liberia–Sierra Leone–Guine interconnection): 23MW, Combined total from 161kV line (BHEPP & CLSG): 41.6MW, Niigatta Generators 7 & 8: 9MW and Karpowership (for essential services): 5.6MW
This has resulted in a total dispatch of 56.29MW to the EDSA distribution network, surpassing the target of 50MW set amid the transition.
In a statement, Hon. Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Yumkella praised the swift response and coordinated efforts of the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC), the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), and on-the-ground operational teams. Special acknowledgment was also extended to DM1 and DM2 of MoE for their roles in strategic coordination.
“Our contingency measures worked perfectly. This success is a testament to the resilience and professionalism of our energy sector,” said Dr. Yumkella.
The shutdown of Karpowership, previously a major supplier of grid electricity to Freetown, posed a critical challenge. However, the swift redeployment of alternative sources like Bumbuna and the regional CLSG line has helped to maintain a stable supply, highlighting Sierra Leone’s growing energy independence and adaptability.
The leadership at the Ministry of Energy continues to monitor the situation closely and is expected to release further updates as the transition progresses.
