U.S. government agency Millennium Challenge Corporation and the government of Sierra Leone have signed a $480-million compact to improve access to affordable and reliable electricity for 4.6 million people.
Sierra Leone was selected to develop this compact in December 2020, following an initial compact in 2014 that focused on water and electricity supply projects.
Signed on September 27, the agreement will support three major energy sector projects in Sierra Leone, along with a $14.2-million contribution from the government. First, the Transmission Backbone Project will expand the country’s transmission network, enhancing electricity coverage and reliability, while also facilitating cross-border energy trade within West Africa and supporting private sector-led power generation.
The second initiative is the Distribution and Access Project, which aims to strengthen grid reliability and reduce energy losses for schools, healthcare facilities, businesses and households in target communities.
Lastly, the Power Sector Reform Project will focus on ensuring the long-term sustainability of Sierra Leone‘s energy sector by lowering service costs, attracting private investment and improving regulatory frameworks.
