By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – On January 20, 2025, the Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with its development partners including Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), commissioned the Kassirie Mini Grid project to supply reliable electricity to previously underserved communities.
About the Project
This solar-powered mini-grid project in Kassirie is the third such initiative by the Universal Energy Facility, a multi-donor results-based finance (RBF) programme managed by SEforALL. The project comprises 67kW of solar and 204kWh of battery power to deliver clean, reliable, and sustainable electricity to 54% of households, businesses, and public institutions in Kassirie. This directly benefits thousands of people who were previously entirely dependent on fossil fuel generators for their power needs.
Remarks from Officials
Hon. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Energy Sector Lead and Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security (PI-CREF), remarked on the significance of the project. “The Universal Energy Facility’s RBF programme will transform Kassirie and Kambia District by powering homes, schools, and healthcare facilities with clean, reliable energy. It’s not just about electricity; it’s about creating opportunities, improving healthcare, enhancing education, and empowering communities to thrive,” he stated.
Support for Energy Transition
The project supports Sierra Leone’s Energy Transition and Green Growth Plan. The Kassirie mini-grid project by Power Leone will significantly contribute to the Government’s efforts to improve energy access and support rural economic development.
Financial Models and Donor Support
Anita Otubu, Senior Director of the Universal Energy Facility, highlighted the financial models catalyzing such projects. “The Kassirie mini-grid project highlights how donor funding can serve as a catalyst for transformative change. By supporting infrastructure development in unelectrified communities, initiatives like this directly improve lives, providing reliable electricity that drives economic growth, enhances public services such as healthcare and education, and fosters long-term resilience,” she said. She also expressed appreciation to funders, including the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), and partners such as the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), European Union Delegation, and Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for their invaluable support.
Future Commitments
This commissioning event underscores the broader momentum for rural electrification in Sierra Leone. With the recently announced commitment of EUR 20 million in financing from the European Union Delegation to support the Government of Sierra Leone’s Results-Based Financing mechanism, administered through SEforALL, this funding is poised to electrify 35,000 rural households and businesses, enabling transformative change in underserved communities.