Government-Backed Solar Project to Cut Diesel Use at Lungi Airport

A major renewable energy project is underway at Freetown International Airport, marking a significant step in Sierra Leone’s transition toward sustainable infrastructure.

Engineering teams from AIC Renewable Energy have officially commenced on-site work as part of an ambitious plan to expand the airport’s existing solar power system. The development aligns with the government’s broader push to adopt green energy solutions across key national facilities.

At present, the airport operates on a 1 megawatt (MW) solar plant. The ongoing expansion will introduce an additional 3.6 MW of solar capacity, increasing total generation to 4.6 MW upon completion.

A central focus of the project is the upgrade of the airport’s energy storage system. The existing 1 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery infrastructure is set to be significantly expanded to 21 MWh. This enhancement is expected to enable the airport to rely entirely on stored solar energy during nighttime operations, positioning it among the most energy-efficient aviation hubs in West Africa.

Leading the technical assessment is German engineer Peter Weißferdt, who is overseeing the ongoing feasibility and engineering studies on site.

The initiative represents a collaborative effort involving Sierra Leonean authorities alongside German and Turkish engineering partners. Beyond improving energy reliability, the project is also expected to drastically reduce the airport’s reliance on diesel generators, cutting operational costs associated with fuel consumption.

Officials believe the development could serve as a model for integrating renewable energy into critical infrastructure, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency.