SOLAR & ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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ManoCap Energy commissions 1.5 MWp solar power plant in Sierra Leone ManoCap Energy has commissioned a
solutions that deliver measurable impact. ManoCap Energy continues to demonstrate its ability to develop and operate high- quality assets, and we are pleased to support their growth in West Africa.” John Kimotho, Investment Director at Mirova, added: “Mirova is committed to financing projects that contribute to the energy transition while supporting sustainable economic development. The Miro Forestry solar project aligns well with these objectives, and we are pleased to provide debt financing to support its successful delivery.” Pooja Melwani, Consultant to Invest Salone, said: “This project highlights the growing opportunity for renewable energy solutions in Sierra Leone. Through targeted technical assistance, Invest Salone is pleased to have supported ManoCap Energy in bringing this project to commissioning and in helping to strengthen the country’s renewable energy ecosystem.”
providing clean power for industrial use and reducing exposure to volatile diesel prices. The 1.5 MWp system will generate approximately 1.9 million kWh annually over 20 years. ManoCap Energy developed, financed, and delivered the system in close collaboration with Miro Forestry and a group of experienced investment and technical partners. Debt financing for the project was provided by Mirova, with Inspired Evolution supporting ManoCap Energy as a shareholder. Invest Salone provided technical assistance to ManoCap Energy to support project development and delivery in Sierra Leone. Leadership perspectives Tom Cairnes, CEO of ManoCap Energy, said: “This 1.5 MWp installation is a strong example of how commercially viable solar solutions can support African businesses while delivering real environmental and economic benefits. We are proud to have partnered with Miro Forestry and our financing partners to deliver reliable,
cost-effective solar power that strengthens Sierra Leone’s industrial competitiveness, and demonstrates ManoCap Energy’s ability to execute complex projects in emerging markets.” Anthony Gaydon, CEO of Miro Forestry, commented: “Reliable and sustainable energy is critical to our long-term operations in Sierra Leone. The commissioning of this solar plant represents an important step in reducing our carbon footprint and improving the resilience of our energy supply. We are pleased to be working with ManoCap Energy and their partners on this important initiative.”
1.5-megawatt peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic power plant at Miro Forestry’s state-of-the- art plywood mill in Sierra Leone’s Tonkolili District. The installation provides clean electricity to forestry operations, eliminating diesel dependence for 13% of the site’s energy needs. The installation supports Sierra Leone’s renewable energy and industrialisation goals and demonstrates how private-sector investment can drive inclusive, sustainable growth across West Africa. The solar system will power Miro Forestry’s plywood mill and processing operations, serving approximately 3,700 employees across the group, 23 per cent of whom are women. The project reduces energy costs by an estimated 10 per cent while cutting annual carbon emissions by approximately 1,700 tons per year – equivalent to removing 370 cars from the road. The commissioning of the 1.5 MWp solar system contributes to Sierra Leone’s broader energy and climate objectives by
Sarah Bouhassoun, Investment Principal, West Africa at Inspired
Evolution, said: “This project reflects the type of investment we seek to support — commercially sound renewable energy
www.manocapenergy.com
This 1.5 MWp installation is a strong example of how commercially viable solar solutions can support African businesses while delivering real environmental and economic benefits.
49 MWp Lion Solar Park and South Africa’s Energy Future
component of reliable renewable generation. Falling battery energy storage system (BESS) costs make solar PV integration increasingly viable. BESS can store surplus solar energy for use during peak evening demand and help stabilise the grid, allowing solar projects to deliver a more consistent supply that meets customers’ needs. To accommodate growing renewable generation, South Africa must invest in additional transmission lines, stronger substations, and increased transformer capacity. Modern grid controls and equipment are required to maintain stability, while streamlined approvals and coordinated investment will accelerate adoption. The growth of solar power presents substantial opportunities for the local electrical, engineering, and energy sectors. Projects such as Lion Thorn require a skilled workforce for construction, operation, and maintenance. There are also expanding prospects for local contractors, engineers, equipment suppliers, and technical service providers. Engaging local teams and suppliers ensures that communities benefit directly from the Just Energy Transition by creating jobs and building new skills. Looking ahead, the outlook for solar and renewable energy development in South Africa remains strong. With available solar wheeling capacity in regions such as Nelson Mandela Bay and the Free State, demand for cost-competitive clean electricity is set to grow. Corporate PPAs, wheeling arrangements, and increased private investment will drive this growth. To sustain this momentum, the grid needs further expansion, predictable connection timelines, and investment certainty.
Transition through long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with partners such as PPC and POWERX. These agreements demonstrate how private investment can expand clean energy supply and strengthen national sustainability efforts. Developing a utility-scale solar project such as Lion Thorn presents practical and technical challenges. Coordinating land rights, securing environmental approvals, and arranging grid access and financing are critical. Technical factors, including site conditions, grid-connection design, and compliance with national standards, must be managed carefully. Securing long-term electricity customers was vital to financial close, achieved in partnership with Nedbank CIB, underscoring the importance of robust financial backing in such ventures. A crucial aspect of large-scale renewable projects is grid capacity and infrastructure. generated cannot reliably reach consumers. The Lion Thorn Solar Park will feed power into the Eskom grid, underscoring the need for sufficient grid capacity to guide project development and siting. To facilitate efficient grid connections, Eskom’s Grid Access Unit now serves as a central resource for developers, and planned transmission expansion and substation upgrades will unlock additional capacity. Early engagement, thorough technical studies, and coordinated construction schedules are key steps to streamline new connections. Energy storage is also emerging as a vital Without adequate transmission and distribution networks, the electricity
By Minx Avrabos
A crucial aspect of large-scale renewable projects is grid capacity and infrastructure. Without adequate transmission and distribution networks, the electricity generated cannot reliably reach consumers.
S outh Africa is accelerating its this shift. With commercial operations set to begin in 2028, the project is expected to transition to clean energy, and the 49 MWp Lion Thorn Solar Park reflects
generate approximately 115 million kWh of clean electricity in its first year, reducing annual carbon emissions by about 104,190 tonnes. This significant contribution aligns with South Africa’s broader renewable energy goals and supports the country’s Just Energy
SPARKS ELECTRICAL NEWS
NOVEMBER 2026
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