A new report by the Institute for Governance Reform has revealed that 90% of Freetown residents say electricity tariffs remain unreasonably high and are urging the government to take urgent action. However, 76% of citizens believe the electricity situation has improved over the past year.

The findings were presented on October 21, 2025, by IGR’s Research and Program Director, Professor Fredline M’Cormack-Hale, during a press briefing held to unveil results from a recent survey examining public sentiment on electricity and two other key issues.

Using graphs from her presentation, Professor M’Cormack-Hale noted that while 12% of respondents felt the electricity situation remained unchanged, another 12% believed it had worsened. The data also revealed stark differences across Freetown’s neighborhoods: Westend: 83% of residents in affluent areas reported improved electricity services, Central Freetown: 77% acknowledged improvements, Eastend: 71% saw progress, though 15% said conditions had deteriorated.

Beyond service delivery, the survey highlighted pressing concerns citizens want addressed. Chief among them is the high cost of electricity, followed by: – Voltage instability – 67%, Power theft – 36%, Corruption among EDSA staff – 34%, Unpaid consumer bills – 24%, and Non-payment by government offices – 21%

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“These issues reflect a growing demand for accountability and affordability in the energy sector,” Professor M’Cormack-Hale emphasized.

IGR’s Data Manager, Gabor Gervai, elaborated on the methodology behind the findings. The survey engaged 1,072 residents aged 18 and above, using a multi-stage cluster sampling approach. Enumeration areas were selected based on ward and administrative population data, with gender-balanced representation. Interviews were conducted face-to-face in Krio, using electronic data collection tools.

The report underscores both progress and persistent challenges in Sierra Leone’s energy sector, offering a roadmap for policy action grounded in citizen voices.