The Salone Off-Grid Renewable Energy Acceleration (SOGREA) Initiative has launched its first Call for Pre-Qualification Applications, inviting private sector companies to develop and upgrade green mini-grids in rural communities across Sierra Leone. The initiative, backed by the European Union and the Government of Denmark, aims to expand clean and reliable electricity access while promoting climate-resilient development and unlocking investment opportunities for renewable energy developers. The program, totaling EUR 24 million in catalytic funding, provides performance-based capital support to cover a portion of upfront development costs, with payments released upon verification of project milestones.
SOGREA is designed to bridge the gap between the true cost of electricity supply and what rural households and businesses can afford, reducing tariffs while expanding connections. It builds on Sierra Leone’s recent mini-grid sector reforms, including transparent regulation and tariff-setting mechanisms, which provide long-term certainty for investors. The Call for Pre-Qualification Applications is open to licensed, for-profit mini-grid developers registered in Sierra Leone with experience operating green mini-grids in Sub-Saharan Africa, capacity to deliver projects within 12 months, and at least 30% female representation in administrative and operational roles. Submissions close on 9 March 2026, and successful companies will be invited to submit site-specific proposals for new or upgraded mini-grid projects.
The initiative is implemented by UNOPS, with the support of Sustainable Energy for All, in close partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone. By crowding in private capital, SOGREA seeks to strengthen local economies, accelerate universal energy access, and support sustainable investment and climate action. The program also reflects the commitment of the EU and Denmark to advancing green energy in Africa while fostering inclusive socio-economic development.
Government officials and development partners emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative. Sierra Leone’s Minister of Energy, Cyril Arnold Grant, highlighted the program’s role in advancing sector reforms and delivering lasting benefits to communities. Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy and Food Security, underlined the importance of aligning donor resources with national priorities to expand reliable electricity access and crowd in private sector investment.
European and Danish representatives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the country’s green transition. EU Ambassador Jacek Jankowski emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships between government leadership and the private sector, describing SOGREA as a scalable model for rural electrification across the region. Denmark’s Ambassador to Ghana, Jakob Linulf, stressed that green energy access is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering innovation, and transforming Sierra Leone’s economy.
UNOPS and Sustainable Energy for All representatives highlighted the broader social and economic benefits of reliable energy. Silvia Gallo, UNOPS Regional Director, noted that SOGREA will bring electricity to households, schools, clinics, and small businesses, laying the foundation for long-term economic growth. Anita Otubu, Senior Director of the Universal Energy Facility, praised results-based financing as a powerful tool to de-risk private investment, accelerate energy access, and strengthen local energy markets, emphasizing the initiative’s potential to deliver measurable, lasting impact across Sierra Leone and beyond.
