By: Fatmata Lebbie
President Julius Maada Bio has inspected the ongoing construction of the US$417 million Nant Power Plant at Kissy Dock Yard in Freetown, with project officials projecting that electricity generation will begin in September 2027.
During his visit on Friday, 16 October 2026, President Bio received an update on the project’s progress from Karim Nasser, Chief Executive Officer of the Nant Power Project, formerly known as the Western Area Power Generation Project, and members of the technical team.
The 108.4-megawatt power plant is expected to strengthen Sierra Leone’s electricity supply and support economic activities when completed.
The briefing covered construction progress, safety measures and the infrastructure planned for the facility.
The project is being developed by TCQ Power and Anergi Group Plc, with financial support from the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID).
According to project details, the financing package includes a US$292 million loan from the DFC and US$40 million from EBID, alongside equity contributions from the developers.
Construction began in 2024, with the facility designed to operate as a multi-fuel Combined-Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plant using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Siemens Energy is expected to manage the plant’s operations upon completion, while Shapoorji Pallonji is responsible for engineering and construction.
Project officials also briefed the President on measures being introduced to improve safety at the site, including plans to encase three tanks in sand and concrete.
The facility will feature an administrative building, firefighting unit, warehouse, security control room and other supporting infrastructure intended to ensure safe operations and protect nearby communities.
President Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the project’s successful completion, highlighting its importance to the country’s efforts to improve electricity supply and support economic growth.
Project officials also said Sierra Leoneans had been involved in the construction work, alongside internationally sourced equipment and advanced treatment technology.
Once operational, the 108.4-megawatt plant is expected to increase Sierra Leone’s power-generation capacity, providing additional electricity to households and businesses while supporting the country’s broader development ambitions.
The project is part of ongoing efforts to address Sierra Leone’s electricity challenges, with its anticipated 2027 commissioning expected to mark a significant addition to the country’s energy infrastructure.
