Sierra Leone and Abu Dhabi’s Global South Utilities sign MoU for 500MW renewable projects

Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Energy announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Global South Utilities (GSU) of Abu Dhabi on the sidelines of the World Government Summit in Dubai. The agreement entrusts GSU with conducting feasibility studies for renewable energy investments and projects worth up to 500 megawatts, to assist Sierra Leointending to assist meeting power needs in key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Sierra Leone’s president, His Excellency Dr Julius Maada Bio, witnessed the signing, demonstrating the government’s dedication to increasing the country’s capacity for sustainable energy. In addition to accelerating efforts to improve energy access, reliability, and overall sustainability throughout the nation, the MoU is a calculated move to draw private sector investment and technical expertise to Sierra Leone’s power sector.
The partnership’s pragmatic and development-oriented goals were emphasised by Ali Alshimmari, Managing Director and CEO of Global South Utilities: “Reliable energy is at the heart of economic progress.” This Memorandum of Understanding with Sierra Leone demonstrates a common emphasis on workable, financially viable renewable energy solutions that boost long-term resilience, increase access, and fortify industry. GSU contributes technical know-how, methodical execution, and experience working in African markets where infrastructure has the biggest influence on people’s day-to-day existence.
Hon. Cyril Grant, Minister of Energy, described the agreement as a watershed moment for Sierra Leone’s energy strategy. “This Memorandum of Understanding is a critical milestone in our efforts to transform Sierra Leone’s energy landscape. “We look forward to working with GSU to create new opportunities and drive economic development,” he said.
While the MoU initially focuses on feasibility studies, the collaboration is expected to inform future project development, financing arrangements, and site selection. The collaboration aims to support industrial growth, improve service reliability for communities and businesses, and contribute to Sierra Leone’s broader sustainable development goals by focusing on innovative renewable solutions and a low-carbon approach. Details on the scope, timelines, and potential financing structures will be shared as the feasibility studies progress.