Nant Power Project Reportedly 68% Complete, Grid Supply Targeted for March 2027

Construction of the Nant Power Project in Kissy, Freetown, is reportedly 68% complete, with the 108-megawatt gas-powered facility scheduled to begin supplying electricity to Sierra Leone’s national grid in March 2027.

Valued at approximately US$418 million, the project is intended to expand national generation capacity and improve electricity availability, particularly across the Western Area. Its gas-to-power technology is expected to add capacity while reducing pressure on existing generation facilities.

Financing and expected economic impact

The United States International Development Finance Corporation has supported the project through financing and political-risk support reported at approximately US$412 million. The World Bank has identified weaknesses in electricity infrastructure as a major constraint on economic development in Sierra Leone.

More reliable power is expected to benefit electricity-dependent businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises involved in welding, refrigeration, food processing, printing and tailoring. Improved supply could also support activity in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism and information technology.

The facility will continue to use natural gas as its primary fuel source. The project is expected to promote cleaner and more efficient energy infrastructure, although its effects on reliability, affordability, employment and economic growth have not yet been demonstrated.

Grid connection remains part of the work ahead

The March 2027 supply date remains a target. Construction must be completed, followed by technical testing and arrangements to connect the facility to the national grid.

Energy sector observers have cautioned that additional generation alone will not resolve Sierra Leone’s electricity challenges. They say progress must be matched by improvements to transmission and distribution infrastructure so that new power can reach households, businesses and industries.

Sierra Leone’s 2026 National Energy Compact sets a goal of raising electricity access from approximately 36% to 78% by 2030. Meeting that target will require continued investment across the wider power system, including networks that transmit and distribute electricity after it is generated.