Solar power generation for Freetown

The Solar Park in Freetown was selected from over 80 competitive project applications and countries for the first funding cycle of the prestigious International Renewable Energy (Irena/ADFD) project facility. All the selected projects contribute towards helping deal with energy security, improved energy access and a broad socio-economic impact.

Much of Freetown's power comes from the Bumbuna Dam, which, according to a 2011 World Bank report, produces less than 20 megawatts of power during the dry season. Sierra Leone's grid only provides 13 megawatts per million people, about 3.5 times less than nations with similar socio-economic conditions.

The solar park will produce sufficient energy so as to provide electricity to approximately 3,000 households on average in Sierra Leone. The overall performance complies with 8.5% of Sierra Leone's total energy consumption. The goal is to achieve 25% of the country's energy generation from renewable sources by 2015.

In addition to providing manufacturing jobs to people who need it, Solar Park Freetown will bolster Sierra Leone's shaky central power supplies. Much of Freetown's power comes from the Bumbuna Dam, which, according to a 2011 World Bank report, produces less than 20 megawatts of power during the dry season.

Solar power has the potential to greatly increase energy access in Sierra Leone and accelerate its economic growth. Both internationally financed central power systems like Solar Park Freetown and private solar setups in rural areas will create jobs and provide a stable source of energy for millions.

The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development announced a new loan program that would provide Sierra Leone with Dh 33 million, or about $8.9 million, to construct a new solar power plant near Freetown, the capital and a major urban area.