Sierra Leone: President Bio Inspects $417 Million Nant Power Project, With First Power Expected In 2027

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has visited the construction site of the $417 million Nant Power Plant in Kissy, Freetown, where project officials said the facility was on track to begin generating electricity in September 2027.

The 108.4-megawatt combined-cycle gas turbine plant is designed to run on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG), helping boost electricity supply in the West African country.

The project is being developed by TCQ Power and Anergi Group Plc, with financing that includes a $292 million loan from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), a $40 million loan from the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), and equity contributions from the developers.

Construction was officially launched in mid-2024. Siemens Energy is expected to operate the facility once completed, while Shapoorji Pallonji is responsible for engineering and construction.

During the visit, Karim Nasser, chief executive of the Nant Power Project, formerly known as the Western Area Power Generation Project, briefed Bio on construction progress, safety measures and planned operational facilities.

Nasser outlined plans to encase three tanks in sand and concrete as part of the plant’s safety arrangements.

The facility will also include an administrative building, a firefighting department, a warehouse, a security control room and other supporting infrastructure intended to improve operational safety and protect surrounding communities.

Project officials said Sierra Leonean workers had carried out construction work at the site, which incorporates internationally sourced equipment and advanced treatment technology.

Bio reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the project and stressed the importance of timely completion as Sierra Leone seeks to strengthen electricity supply and support economic activity.

Once operational, the plant is expected to increase the country’s power-generation capacity and improve electricity supply to households and businesses.