In a bid to address the ongoing electricity challenges plaguing the nation, representatives from Karpowership met with Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, head of the Energy Governance Coordination Group at the Ministry of Energy, and his team.

The high-stakes discussions took place in the Ministry of Energy’s conference room, marking another round of negotiations aimed at ensuring the continued operation of Karpowership’s electricity-generating vessel in Sierra Leone.

Emre Durmusoglu, a key representative of Karpowership, expressed optimism following the talks, emphasizing the company’s dedication to supporting Sierra Leone in overcoming its energy crisis.

“We remain committed to working with the government to address the electricity shortages affecting households, businesses, and industries across the country,” Durmusoglu stated. He reiterated the shared goal of both Karpowership and the Sierra Leonean government to stabilize the nation’s power supply.

Since 2020, Karpowership has been a critical player in Sierra Leone’s energy sector, contributing approximately 65 megawatts of power generation capacity—meeting an estimated 80% of the country’s total electricity demand. However, recent widespread power outages in Freetown have underscored the fragility of the energy grid and the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

The capital city has been plunged into darkness, with key facilities, including the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA) headquarters and the offices of both Deputy Ministers of Energy, experiencing total blackouts.

The situation has raised alarm, particularly at Connaught Hospital, Freetown’s primary referral hospital, which is operating without power, jeopardizing critical medical services and patient safety.

The ongoing negotiations between Karpowership and the Ministry of Energy come at a pivotal moment, as the government seeks to mitigate the impact of the power crisis on public services, economic activities, and overall quality of life.