Consolidating the Energy Gains….

Deputy Energy Minister I Participates in 3rd Voice of Global South Summit …Says Energy Security Requires Innovative Solutions

Austine Luseni Communications Specialist Ministry of Energy
Contact:077377042/034157390

Virtual,Freetown,Saturday August 17,2024—- Deputy Minister of Energy l,Dr. Eldred Taylor,has addressed the 3rd Voice of Global South Summit Energy Ministers’ Session where he said that the Government of Sierra Leone was of the firm conviction that sustainable solutions must be at the forefront of energy transition efforts.

Speaking on the theme: “Sustainable Energy Solutions for a Sustainable Future”, Dr. Taylor said that President Julius Maada Bio as Minister of Energy was more than interested in the theme of the summit, adding that Sierra Leone, like many countries in the Global South, was faced with significant challenges in achieving energy security.

“As we grapple with volatile market dynamics,an infrastructure deficit,and the impacts of climate change,the path to resilient and inclusive energy future requires strategic efforts and innovative solutions,” he said.

Dr Taylor spoke about the challenges faced by the energy sector in Sierra Leone,noting that the inadequate and mostly outdated infrastructure limits access to reliable energy,particularly in the rural areas.

“The dependence of Sierra Leone on imported fuel subjects the country to the volatility of the global energy markets,exacerbating issues of affordability and stability.

“To address these challenges,collaborative efforts are essential. Regional and international partnerships,especially South-South collaboration can play a crucial role in bridging the infrastructure gap,”Dr. Taylor stated, adding that,since 2017,they have had a $78 million 225KV Transmission Line project.

The Deputy Minister of Energy l told the session that sustainable resource allocation was vital for creating a resilient energy system while also highlighting the various strides that have been made in Sierra Leone through investments in renewable energy sources.

He spoke about advancements in energy transition and innovative models,building resilient supply chains and capacity,mitigating climate-related risks,impact of geopolitical dynamics,adoption of circular economy principles,and leveraging low-cost financing.

“Addressing Sierra Leone’s energy challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes strategic investments,innovative models and collaborative efforts,” he concluded.

With the energy sector and the Feed Salone agenda being inextricably linked,reforms continue in the sector.

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