Major UK energy supplier Octopus Energy has joined forces with Idris Elba to develop renewable energy projects in Sierra Leone, starting with the country’s first wind farm.
The Sherbro Island wind farm plans were announced by Octopus’ Generation renewable energy investment arm at the COP29 World Climate Conference in Baku with the support of the 52-year-old Golden Globe-winning actor.
Elba, whose father was born in Sierra Leone, has been working with childhood friend Siaka Stevens on plans to develop Sherbro Island into a sustainable, self-reliant area.
The pair has struck a deal in 2019 with the Sierra Leone government to develop the island, which can become “an economic engine” for the country.
Less than 5% of rural Sierra Leone currently has access to electricity so the project, which will power around 2000 homes, has the potential to kickstart a radical transformation of the region.
“We’re building not just a wind farm, but a foundation for sustainable growth and energy independence in Sierra Leone,” said Elba. “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.”
“The insights we’ll gain will provide a blueprint to scale even more wind and solar farms in the future, said Zoisa North-Bond, CEO of Octopus Energy Generation. “Partnering with Idris and his team, we’re committed to being part of Sierra Leone’s journey as a renewables leader.”
Sierra Leone, which aims to generate 85% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, has been identified as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change.
