Bumbuna Plant to Undergo 12-Day Shutdown as EDSA, EGTC Begin Annual Maintenance

The Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority) has announced a scheduled annual maintenance exercise on the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Power Plant and its associated 161kV transmission line, which will result in a temporary interruption of electricity supply across parts of Sierra Leone.

In a press release issued on 12th May, 2026, EDSA, in collaboration with the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (Electricity Generation and Transmission Company), stated that the maintenance will run from 1:00 a.m. on Monday, 18th May to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, 29th May, 2026.

The 12-day shutdown will affect power supply to major areas including Freetown, Makeni, and Magburaka, as engineers carry out essential preventive works on the national hydroelectric infrastructure.

According to the Authority, the exercise is a routine but critical operational requirement aligned with international safety and engineering standards, aimed at improving the efficiency, reliability, and long-term sustainability of the Bumbuna facility and its transmission network.

EDSA further explained that the maintenance is being conducted during the dry season when water levels—and consequently power generation at Bumbuna—are at their lowest, in order to minimize broader system disruptions and prevent unexpected breakdowns in the future.

To reduce the impact of the shutdown on consumers, EDSA and EGTC will deploy thermal diesel generators in Freetown, Makeni, and Magburaka throughout the maintenance period. In addition, Independent Power Producers, including Karpower and Planet Solar, are expected to increase their output to help stabilize national supply.

The Authority assured the public that it remains committed to ensuring continuity of electricity services despite the temporary disruption, and expressed regret for any inconvenience caused.

Full restoration of generation from Bumbuna is expected on Saturday, 30th May, 2026, following completion of the maintenance works.

To further manage expectations, EDSA confirmed it will publish a detailed load-management schedule for affected areas by Friday, 15th May, 2026. The public has also been encouraged to access updates or report faults via the 24-hour toll-free hotline 672 or through the EDSA chatbot on 075672672.