Sierra Leone is set to take a significant step towards sustainable energy and waste management with a pioneering 30MW waste-to-energy project in Freetown. 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 this transformative initiative. The project is expected to address the country’s pressing waste disposal challenges while enhancing energy access for millions.
With only 22% of its population having access to electricity, Sierra Leone faces a severe energy deficit. At the same time, unregulated urban waste is a growing crisis, contributing to environmental degradation and health risks. This project seeks to tackle both issues simultaneously by converting municipal waste into a stable renewable energy source. The facility will process 365,000 tonnes of waste annually, generating approximately 236.5 GWh of electricity. This will be supplied to the national grid under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA).
The expected benefits are multi-faceted:
-Climate impact: The project will prevent 94,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually by replacing fossil fuel-based energy generation.
-Economic growth: It will create 250 direct jobs and support an additional 1,500 jobs in the waste management sector.
-Public health improvements: By reducing reliance on unregulated dumpsites, the project will mitigate flood risks, limit disease outbreaks, and improve overall sanitation.
Climate Fund Managers (CFM), a leading blended finance fund manager, specializes in innovative climate solutions. Through its Climate Investor Two Fund, which is backed by the European Union, CFM supports impactful sustainable infrastructure projects across emerging markets. Infinitum Energy Group, a global renewable energy developer, brings expertise in waste-to-energy technology and public-private partnerships.
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Darron Johnson, Regional Head of Africa at CFM, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “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.”
Infinitum Energy Group’s CEO, Lindsay Nagle, echoed this sentiment, saying, “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.”
Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)The project aligns with Sierra Leone’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, demonstrating the country’s commitment to integrating waste management with renewable energy development. Moreover, the initiative directly supports multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, including:
SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Expanding access to renewable energy.
SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): Promoting sustainable urban waste management.
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Creating employment opportunities in green sectors.
The development phase of the project will include detailed waste studies, environmental impact assessments, permitting, and early-stage infrastructure works to fast-track financial close. Once operational, Climate Investor Two is expected to fund up to 75% of the project’s construction equity, ensuring financial viability.
Additionally, a gender action plan and community development program will be established to ensure the project’s benefits are inclusive and equitable. Community consultations will play a vital role in tailoring solutions to local needs, ensuring that both social and environmental considerations are at the heart of the initiative.
As Africa grapples with the dual challenge of waste management and energy access, this project serves as a model for other nations looking to leverage circular economy principles. By turning waste into a valuable energy source, Sierra Leone is pioneering a sustainable infrastructure approach that could be replicated across the continent.
The collaboration between Climate Fund Managers and Infinitum Energy Group highlights the power of blended finance in driving climate-positive investments in emerging markets. By aligning financial innovation with environmental sustainability, this initiative is not just about generating electricity—it’s about transforming lives, fostering economic resilience, and paving the way for a cleaner, greener future in Africa.
