By Joseph S. Conteh
The Waterloo Innovent Solar Park officially launched its groundbreaking 30MW solar energy facility on May 20, 2026, marking a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey toward energy independence and sustainable development.
The launch ceremony, held at the Western Area Rural District facility, brought together government officials, project developers, and community members to celebrate what Minister of Energy Cyril Arnold Grant called “an economic breakthrough” for the nation.
Civil Engineer Ayoub Aitmoulay outlined the project’s ambitious scope, revealing plans to install over 100,000 solar panels during the facility’s 25-year operational lifespan. “Our purpose is for all residents of Sierra Leone to have enough electricity,” Aitmoulay stated, adding that discussions with the government are ongoing to expand the initiative.
Development Officer Arthur Lamy de la Chapelle detailed the project’s phased approach: “This is phase one, delivering 30MW of solar energy. Upon completion of phase two, we will reach 200MW total capacity, providing electricity for 250,000 people.”
CEO Grégoire Verhaeghe highlighted the facility’s future potential, noting that the next expansion could generate energy output equivalent to a small petroleum refinery once fully operational. The addition of high-efficiency panels and battery storage at the Innovent site is expected to deliver 450 GWh annually by 2028.
The solar park will operate in partnership with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), with Innovent producing electricity while EDSA handles distribution. Project officials emphasised that this arrangement will result in cheaper electricity rates for consumers.
Minister Grant emphasised the project’s broader impact during the launch ceremony: “This project is another bold step in the country’s drive towards sustainable development and energy security. It creates jobs and belongs to the community as much as it belongs to Sierra Leone.”
The Waterloo Innovent Solar Park represents a transformative investment in Sierra Leone’s energy infrastructure, promising reliable, affordable, and clean electricity for hundreds of thousands of citizens while supporting the nation’s economic development goals for the next quarter-century.
