Proparco has reinforced its support for Planet Solar, a Sierra Leone-based solar energy company, by providing an additional €390,000 to assist with grid connections for local communities. This follows Proparco’s initial investment in the company in 2023 and reflects its ongoing commitment to expanding energy infrastructure in Sierra Leone to meet growing power demand.
Founded in 2017, Planet Solar develops and operates grid-connected solar power generation projects. The company has commissioned three projects totaling 35 MW in Makoth and Koidu, while two additional projects totaling 15 MW are under construction in Bo and Port Loko, bringing the total capacity across the four sites to 50 MW.
The recent financing enabled the connection of the Makoth community, located in the Northern Province, to the electricity grid in June 2025. Seven facilities in the area, including schools and public offices, received power for the first time, significantly improving access to essential services for residents.
This funding was facilitated through resources provided to Proparco by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. By supporting Planet Solar, Proparco continues to back private-sector partners that align with Sierra Leone’s public policy goals of alleviating energy shortages and expanding electricity access.
The new investment builds on a previous transaction in December 2023, which involved Proparco, the Danish fund Frontier Energy II, Planet One Energy, and British and Dutch development institutions BII and FMO.
Sadio Dicko, Proparco’s Regional Director for West Africa, highlighted that the support aligns with Proparco’s 2023–2027 strategic plan to reduce inequalities. He emphasized that access to electricity is a critical issue in Africa, and improving electrification directly enhances daily life for communities while fostering broader economic growth.
