Name and Location
Bumbuna hydroelectric power station Phase 2, Sierra Leone.
Project Description
The project entails the expansion of the existing Bumbuna hydroelectric power station, on the Seli river, through the addition of 350 MW of power generation capacity. This phase will triple the country’s power output, which currently stands at below 100 MW.
The second phase will not only increase the energy supply to the capital Freetown, but will also attract international commercial and industrial investments, bringing increased wealth, employment and training to the people of Sierra Leone.
The first 50 MW phase was commissioned in 2009, after a 30-year-long construction period, and transfers electricity from the power station to Freetown and the towns of Makeni and Lunsar.
Value
The value of the project has not been disclosed.
Duration
First power production is expected to start in early 2017.
Client
Joule Africa, a newly established company of US-based Joule Investments Group, with the government of Sierra Leone.
Key Contracts and Suppliers
None stated.
Latest Developments
The Sierra Leone Ministry of Energy and Water Resources has signed a memorandum of understanding with Joule, committing to build Phase 2. The project will bring the total Bumbuna power capacity to 400 MW.
Initial feasibility studies for the project are expected to begin imminently.
On Budget and on Time?
Not stated.
Contact Details for Project Information
Joule Africa managing partner Greg Newman, tel +1 925 478 4303 or email greg@jouleafrica.com.
Sierra Leone Deputy Minister of Information Sheka Tarawalie, tel +232 33 232 989 or email shekitotee@yahoo.com.