Olson solar energy Sierra Leone

Does Sierra Leone have a solar energy resource?

Ministry of Finance The Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) recognises that the country is endowed with a significant solar energy resource. This potential however remains largely untapped.

How many solar mini-grid sites are there in Sierra Leone?

In 2020 Power Leone signed an MOU with the Government of Sierra Leone to construct and operate 40 solar mini-grid sites with 1.4 MW capacity across rural Sierra Leone. In 2024, Sierra Leone is constructing and commissioning 17 of these mini-grid sites (800 kW).

What will GOSL do for Sierra Leone?

GOSL will remove barriers hampering the effective development, implementation and dissemination of renewable energy technologies. Also, the draft Energy Policy estimates that Solar PV generation capacity in Sierra Leone is expected to start at 31 MW in 2020 and increase to 156 MW by 2023.

Who regulates the energy sector in Sierra Leone?

The primary law regulating energy sector in Sierra Leone is the National Electricity Act 2011 (“Electricity Act”). This Act incorporates EGTC and establishes EDSA, both of which started operations in 2015. It also sets the legal provisions under which those entities are governed, managed, functioning and are funded.

What is the National Development Strategy of Sierra Leone?

This is one of the key documents on the overall national development strategy of Sierra Leone, including, among other areas – the energy and solar generation sector. It is a recent document, indicating the actual strategic direction of the Government with clear targets and policy actions.

Does Sierra Leone have duty-free & GST exemptions for solar PV equipment?

Despite these duty-free and GST exemptions for the solar PV equipment in Sierra Leone, the process of its application is reported to take quite long and more stream-lining and clear procedures of collaboration between the institutions is needed.