• Sierra Leone’s energy crisis: New 30MW facility will generate 236.5 GWh of electricity from municipal waste.
• Climate impact: The project will prevent 94,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
• Economic boost: Expected to create 250 direct jobs and support 1,500 in the waste management sector.

Climate Fund Managers (CFM) and Infinitum Energy Group have secured $3.1 million in development funding from CFM’s EU-backed Climate Investor Two Fund to co-develop a waste-to-energy project in Freetown, Sierra Leone. This initiative aims to tackle the country’s severe waste management and energy access issues.

Why It Matters:

• Electricity for 3.3 million people: The facility will convert 365,000 tonnes of waste annually into renewable power, feeding the national grid through a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).
• Environmental benefits: Reduces reliance on unregulated dumpsites, mitigates flood risks, and enhances public health.
• Energy diversification: Provides a stable baseload power source, complementing the country’s hydroelectric supply during dry seasons.

The Big Picture:

Sierra Leone faces a dual crisis—unmanaged urban waste and a power deficit, with only 22% of the population having access to electricity. The project directly supports the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by integrating waste management with renewable energy.

What They’re Saying:

Darron Johnson, Regional Head of Africa at CFM: “This project exemplifies our commitment to scalable solutions that address climate, social, and economic challenges. By transforming Freetown’s waste into energy, we’re reducing emissions, catalyzing economic opportunities, and improving community health.”

Lindsay Nagle, CEO of Infinitum Energy Group: “Infinitum is proud to partner with CFM on this landmark project. Leveraging proven technology and strong public-private collaboration, we’re tackling two critical challenges: waste management and energy access.”

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What’s Next:

• The development phase will include detailed waste studies, permitting, and early-stage works to fast-track financial close.
• If successful, Climate Investor Two will fund up to 75% of the project’s construction equity.
• A gender action plan and community development program will be designed in consultation with local residents to ensure inclusive benefits.

Bottom Line:

This project represents a breakthrough for Sierra Leone’s infrastructure, offering a sustainable model for addressing waste and energy challenges in emerging markets. By leveraging blended finance, it sets a precedent for climate-focused investment in Africa’s energy transition.

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