Sierra Leone Owes Nearly $100 Million in Electricity Debt – Energy Minister

Sierra Leone’s Minister of Energy, Cyril Arnold Grant, has disclosed that the country is facing close to 100 million United States dollars in electricity-related debt, underscoring the scale of the financial challenges confronting the energy sector.

Speaking during an interview on AYV’s Wake Up Sierra Leone, Minister Grant said a significant portion of the debt nearly $50 million is owed to Karpowership. He added that the government also owes close to $20 million to another foreign power supplier, in addition to outstanding payments to solar power companies and for electricity imports from Guinea.

The minister noted that the accumulated debts have contributed to persistent challenges within the sector, affecting both sustainability and service delivery. He acknowledged that governance weaknesses and financial leakages have worsened the situation over time.

Minister Grant said his leadership has prioritised addressing governance issues at the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), improving revenue collection, and reducing technical and commercial losses across the sector. He noted that strengthening management systems and enhancing accountability are central to the government’s reform agenda.

He emphasized that resolving the debt burden is critical to stabilising electricity supply, restoring confidence among power providers, and laying the foundation for long-term improvements in Sierra Leone’s energy sector.