Sierra Leone Advances Off-Grid Investment Drive

Sierra Leone has moved a step closer to expanding rural electrification as government officials, renewable energy developers and international partners gathered in Freetown for a two-day workshop under the Salone Off-Grid Renewable Energy Acceleration (SOGREA) programme.
Held on 10–11 June, the event signals the transition of the initiative from planning to implementation, bringing together pre-qualified private companies preparing to bid for solar mini-grid projects across underserved communities.

Funded by the European Union and the Government of Denmark, the SOGREA programme is implemented by UNOPS and its hosted entity, Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL). It combines grant-based investment support with regulatory reforms designed to attract private capital into Sierra Leone’s off-grid renewable energy sector.

The workshop provides shortlisted developers with technical, financial and regulatory guidance ahead of submitting site-specific proposals. The first day focused on developing new solar mini-grids in communities without electricity infrastructure, while the second examined expanding existing privately operated mini-grid systems to meet rising demand.
Sierra Leone continues to face significant energy access challenges, with only 36% of the population connected to the national grid and rural electrification standing at just 6%. Through SOGREA, the government aims to improve electricity access while creating a more attractive investment environment for renewable energy companies.

Deputy Minister of Energy II, Dr Abdul Rahim Jalloh, said recent regulatory reforms, including commitments to cost-reflective tariffs, are intended to strengthen investor confidence and accelerate private sector participation in the country’s energy transition. He said the initiative will play a key role in expanding reliable electricity access by 2028.

SEforALL highlighted the importance of results-based financing in mobilising private investment. Anita Otubu, Senior Director of the Universal Energy Facility, said the programme demonstrates how public funding, government commitment and private sector expertise can work together to accelerate energy access.

UNOPS described the workshop as an important milestone ahead of project implementation and the signing of Grant Support Agreements with successful developers.

International partners also reaffirmed their commitment to Sierra Leone’s clean energy ambitions. The European Union pointed to its €22 million grant package supporting private investment in renewable energy, while Denmark said decentralised green power systems could stimulate economic growth, create employment and improve livelihoods.

As procurement progresses, SOGREA is expected to become a major catalyst for off-grid renewable energy investment, helping to expand electricity access, strengthen rural economies and advance Sierra Leone’s long-term energy transition.