For weeks, Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, and other urban centers have been shrouded in darkness owing to overdue electricity payments to power providers. This situation has severely disrupted daily life, leading to operational challenges even in major hospitals.
Karpowership, the Turkish vessel that serves as the primary electricity supplier for Freetown, has effectively halted power distribution due to an outstanding bill of approximately $48 million (£38 million). Despite assurances from the finance minister to settle the debt, Karpowership has reduced electricity supply from 60 megawatts to just six megawatts, solely catering to essential services.
Additionally, CLSG, an Ivorian power supplier, has substantially decreased its supply to southeastern cities such as Bo, Kenema, and Koidu due to unpaid arrears. Their supply has dwindled from 32 megawatts to 10, though the exact amount owed by the state remains unclear.
The third major electricity source, the state-owned hydroelectric dam in Bumbuna, primarily serves the northern city of Makeni and adjacent areas. However, due to the dry season’s peak, water levels have plummeted, leading to a significant reduction in supply, currently standing at only six megawatts.
Reports suggest that less than two megawatts from the hydro dam currently reaches Freetown, according to a source at the state-owned electricity distribution company (EDSA). However, Finance Minister Sheku Ahmed Fantamadi Bangura, who could provide further insights, is unavailable for comment as he is out of the country.
Sierra Leoneans have vented their frustrations on social media, with many expressing anger over the persistent power outages. Joseph Kargbo, a resident in an eastern suburb of Freetown, lamented going without electricity for six days.
Karpowership, a major player in floating power plant operations globally, has adopted a stringent stance against non-payment. In October last year, it cut power to Guinea-Bissau’s capital due to outstanding bills, plunging the city into darkness.