Octopus Energy’s generation arm, in partnership with the actor Idris Elba, has kicked off its first renewables project in Africa, a wind farm on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone.
The company announced the milestone at this year’s World Climate Conference (COP29) which is currently taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan, and brings together governments, businesses and other stakeholders to negotiate global climate strategies and policies.
Octopus has submitted detailed plans to Sierra Leone’s government.
The company is aiming to start construction of the wind farm – up to five turbines, complete with solar panels and battery storage – next year.
The array will be located close to Bonthe, the island’s main town and hub of energy consumption, with land lease talks underway.
With only 5% of rural Sierra Leone having access to electricity, the project will be a game-changer, boosting the local economy like the fishing industry, as well as powering schools, medical facilities and e-motorbikes.
The partners said they are creating new green jobs, and will team up with local universities to train young people in renewables and offer employment opportunities to maintain the wind farm.
Their aim is to build new industries and future-proofed skilled jobs for the next generation of Sierra Leoneans – where 42% of the population is under 15 years-old.
The wind farm will provide crucial data on local wind patterns and energy usage, helping unlock further renewable investments across Sierra Leone in the future.
This project is set to be the first of many, as the partners look to scale renewables in the country.
It aligns with Sierra Leone’s ambitious target of making 85% of its electricity renewable by 2030.
On Sherbro Island in particular, the need for clean energy to tackle climate change is an urgent one, as the island is vulnerable to rising sea levels and intense rainfall.
Elba said: “I’m incredibly proud of the partnership and progress we’ve made on the Sherbro Island wind farm project with Octopus Energy since our announcement at COP28.
“We’re building not just a wind farm, but a foundation for sustainable growth and energy independence in Sierra Leone. With the turbines scheduled for installation next year, it’ll stand as a powerful testament to our commitment to a cleaner, greener future for Sierra Leone and beyond.”
Octopus Energy Generation chief executive Zoisa North-Bond said: “Kicking off our first renewables project in Africa on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone is a significant milestone.
“The wind farm – the country’s first – will expand energy access, generating clean power and job opportunities in the local economy and community.
“The insights we’ll gain will provide a blueprint to scale even more wind and solar farms in the future.
“Partnering with Idris and his team, we’re committed to being part of Sierra Leone’s journey as a renewables leader – and this is just the beginning.”