By Fatima Kpaka
Tower Hill, Freetown, Monday, November 25, 2024: Deputy Minister of Energy 1, Dr. Eldred Taylor, has presented to the House of Parliament transformative and strategic energy projects that will positively impact the country’s energy sector.
The projects presented for ratification include the 15-30 MWP Battery-Backed Solar PV Plant to be developed at Waterloo by Innovent SAS Limited and a 65 MWP Battery-Backed Solar PV Plant developed in Lungi by Lungi Power Development Company.
Making his case for the ratification of the projects, Dr. Taylor said the Waterloo project was a critical and transformative energy project that would not only meet the rising demand for electricity in the Waterloo area but would also play a key role in the country’s transition to sustainable energy.
He said Waterloo was now playing host to major industries, adding that there could be no better time to have such a project ratified than now.
“The initiative for Lungi is to be implemented under a Build, Operate and Transfer, BOT, arrangement. It will strengthen our energy capacity and will play a critical role in achieving our sustainable energy targets and boosting economic growth across the country,” he said.
The Deputy Minister said that the Lungi project aligned with the Government’s overarching vision to expand renewable energy capacity and to ensure a stable and reliable energy supply.
He cited enhanced power supply, creation of jobs, revenue generation, and environmental sustainability as expected benefits of the projects.
“The Solar PV Plant in Lungi represents a monumental step forward for Sierra Leone’s energy sector. It embodies our commitment to energy security, climate resilience, and sustainable economic growth,” he concluded.
Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Sidiki, described the agreements as good and called on lawmakers to own and ratify the projects.
Chairman Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Hon. Kekura Vandi, said the two agreements or projects will address energy concerns in Waterloo and Lungi. He spoke about the tariffs for the two projects which he said are affordable.
Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, could not hide his joy at the prospects of his people in Lungi having to enjoy electricity. He drew the attention of members to the impact of climate change.