Luanda, Angola — 25 June 2025
On the sidelines of the U.S.–Africa Business Summit in Luanda, Sierra Leone’s government, alongside CEC Africa (Sierra Leone) Ltd. (CECASL) and the sponsors of the 108 MW Nant Power Project, signed a transformative Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership is set to develop West Africa’s first U.S.-sourced LNG terminal, strengthening regional energy security, industrial growth, and economic integration .
Strategic Infrastructure for a Stronger Region
Under the MoU, CECASL will lead the construction of a state-of-the-art LNG import terminal in Sierra Leone, enabling the Nant Power Project to shift from LPG to cleaner, more affordable LNG storage and supply. Positioned as a flagship energy gateway for the Mano River Union and wider West Africa, the terminal aims to significantly reduce baseload power costs and enhance grid stability .
Consortium of Leading Energy Stakeholders
A consortium comprising Nant Power sponsors TCQ Power Ltd. and Anergi Group, along with partners AG&P and current fuel supplier BBE, will oversee the terminal’s development. The collaboration signals strong potential reductions in industrial energy costs—particularly for mineral processing and value-add operations in the regional mining sector .
U.S. Energy Diplomacy in Africa
This terminal marks the first time U.S.-sourced LNG will be imported via a West African hub, aligning with U.S. efforts to fortify African energy resilience. The project is expected to attract financing from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), further solidifying the economic partnership between the two continents .
Leadership Perspectives
Ambassador Troy Fitrell, U.S. Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of African Affairs:
“This important agreement further solidifies the growing trade, investment, and energy relationship between the United States and Sierra Leone… American LNG is fueling West Africa’s growing energy needs.”
Dr. Kandeh Yumkella, Chairman, Sierra Leone Energy Governance Group:
“This partnership aligns with our long-term energy transition strategy and industrialization ambition… we will provide an enabling environment to deliver the jobs and energy security it promises.”
Maria Stratonova, CEO, Anergi Group:
“We are honoured to deepen our partnership with Sierra Leone… reliable power is the foundation for economic transformation—and this initiative positions Sierra Leone as a forward-looking energy hub in West Africa.”
Karim Nasser, Executive Chairman, TCQ Power Ltd.:
“By reducing the cost of power, we will not only light homes but power factories, support miners, and drive value addition to Africa’s own resources… ensuring jobs and prosperity remain on the continent.”
Expected Impact
Energy affordability: Lower cost, reliable baseload power for Sierra Leone and neighboring nations. 🏭 Industrial growth: Strengthened support for mining and mineral processing sectors.
Regional transformation: Catalytic infrastructure for local value addition and intra-regional trade. 🏗️ Economic integration: A critical asset within the regional energy ecosystem.
