The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)
Enhancing access to energy in Sierra Leone
With funding from the World Bank, UNOPS is working with the government of Sierra Leone to further increase access to electricity for rural communities, households, businesses, health clinics and schools across the country.
This article was originally published on 16 May 2024 and has been updated to reflect recent project developments.
Latest updates
17 May 2025
The President of Sierra Leone has commissioned a 1-megawatt solar power plant in Moyamba Town, Moyamba District as part of the 'Enhancing Sierra Leone Energy Access' project. This marks a significant leap forward in expanding access to sustainable and reliable energy in Sierra Leone.
The project aims to increase energy access across Sierra Leone through a dual approach: installing mini-grids in strategic communities and deploying standalone solar systems in schools and health facilities nationwide. More than 400 standalone systems are installed in schools and health facilities.
"UNOPS is dedicated to delivering sustainable infrastructure solutions that foster inclusive development. The Moyamba Solar Power Plant is a powerful example of how renewable energy can drive positive change," said Silvia Gallo, Director of UNOPS West Africa Multi-Country Office.
Read more here.
Light is vital for people and planet. In Sierra Leone, UNOPS is working with the World Bank to provide Moyamba Town and other communities across the country with a steady source of light.
Sierra Leone has one of the lowest rates of electricity access in the world. And many small towns and rural communities of the country are unlikely to be connected to the main grid for at least another ten years. To address this, the government of Sierra Leone is working to increase access to electricity in rural areas of the country, using $12.7 million in funding from the World Bank.
UNOPS is working with the government to develop solar mini-grid and standalone renewable energy systems as part of the 'Enhancing Sierra Leone Energy Access' project, which will provide about 3,000 households and 200 businesses with access to renewable solar energy – and light. The project will also provide electricity to around 200 health facilities and 500 schools through the standalone solar energy systems.
Reliable electricity will improve access to emergency healthcare at night, increase the number of hours students can study, improve safety at night for women and girls as well as enable businesses to operate longer hours, supporting economic growth.
In Moyamba, more than 40 local female technicians were recruited and trained in the installation of solar panels, providing a livelihood opportunity for the community.
