Brussels, 20/12/2012 (Agence Europe) - Separate power networks in West Africa are set to be joined following a new regional electricity project backed by the European Investment Bank (EIB). Work to link power systems of Côte d'Ivoire, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea will progress following formal approval of €75 million in support from the EIB to the government of Sierra Leone for a regional power line interconnecting these four post conflict countries. This is the first project financed by the EIB in Sierra Leone since 2003. The loan agreement was signed in Freetown early December by senior officials of the EIB, Sierra Leone and the West African Power Pool (WAPP).
The investment programme amounting to a total €370 million comprises the construction of a new 1350 km high voltage transmission backbone linking the four states to improve reliable access to cost-effective electricity and connect users to the WAPP. The transmission link will also significantly reduce power costs in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Once completed, the transmission line will enable power exports from Côte d'Ivoire to the other three countries, and the line will later support development of the large hydropower potential in Guinea. (OL/transl.jl)