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In a groundbreaking alliance announced at COP28, Octopus Energy’s generation arm has embarked on a pioneering partnership with Sherbro Alliance Partners (SAP), spearheaded by actor Idris Elba and Siaka Stevens development company , to construct Sierra Leone’s inaugural wind farm as part of the Sherbro Island City project.
This momentous collaboration signifies a significant stride towards harnessing renewable energy potential in the country. The venture aims not only to propel Sierra Leone’s renewable energy prospects but also to compile crucial data crucial for amplifying investments in green energy on Sherbro Island and beyond.
Scheduled for 2024, Octopus Energy is set to construct a cutting-edge renewable energy initiative, initially consisting of up to five wind turbines and solar panels with batteries. These installations will generate clean electricity to power local communities while concurrently exploring avenues for job creation and training in green industries for the local populace.
SAP, an infrastructure development company co-founded by renowned actor Idris Elba and Siaka Stevens, grandson of the former President of Sierra Leone, envisions Sherbro Island as a semi-autonomous Special Economic Zone. This framework facilitates private sector-driven developmental activities. Their mission revolves around transforming Sherbro Island into a dynamic economic hub and eco-city, drawing inspiration from global metropolises like Singapore and Dubai, focusing on governance efficiency, robust infrastructure, connectivity, healthcare, education, arts, and business development.
Furthermore, this historic agreement entails the establishment of SAP and Octopus offices within Sierra Leone, signifying a significant step towards fostering long-term collaborative initiatives in the region.
Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation, expressed immense enthusiasm about this monumental venture, citing it as the company’s inaugural foray into African renewables. North-Bond emphasized the alignment of Octopus Energy’s commitment to sustainability with SAP’s vision for Sherbro Island, underscoring the immense potential of green energy across the African continent.
With only about 28% of Sierra Leone’s population currently having access to electricity, and a national target of achieving 85% renewable electricity capacity by 2030, this collaboration signifies a critical leap towards scaling clean and affordable energy to a larger populace, underscoring the pivotal role of renewable energy in the country’s development trajectory.
In his remarks, Idris Elba highlighted their aspiration to create a culturally rich international city on Sherbro Island, fusing African heritage with modern infrastructure in harmony with sustainability. Siaka Stevens emphasized the commitment to building African cities that prioritize sustainability and green energy.
