By Forum staff writer
Residents in Freetown are preparing for nights of electricity outages following the introduction of a new power distribution schedule by authorities.
The Ministry of Energy and the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority have announced a temporary nighttime rationing plan aimed at managing limited electricity supply across the capital.
Officials say the decision was necessitated by a sharp drop in power generation at the Bumbuna Hydroelectric Power Station, the country’s main source of hydroelectric energy. The situation has been further compounded by constraints affecting other supply sources, reducing the overall capacity available to meet demand.
In response, authorities have introduced what they describe as a fair share system to ensure that electricity is distributed as evenly as possible among residents during peak evening hours. The measure is expected to remain in place while efforts continue to stabilize power generation.
Under the new arrangement, Freetown has been divided into six service zones. Each zone will receive electricity on a rotating basis at night, allowing different parts of the city to have access to power at scheduled intervals. The aim, according to officials, is to prevent a total blackout while ensuring that no single area is left without electricity for extended periods.
The announcement has prompted mixed reactions from residents, many of whom are already grappling with irregular power supply. For households and small businesses, nighttime electricity is critical for daily activities, including lighting, food preservation and commercial operations.
Energy officials have acknowledged the inconvenience but maintain that the rationing plan is necessary under the current circumstances. They say the rotation system is designed to maximize the limited energy available and reduce pressure on the national grid.
Authorities are also urging the public to use electricity responsibly during the period, especially when power is available. Consumers are encouraged to limit unnecessary usage in order to help sustain supply across the different zones.
The Ministry of Energy has assured residents that the situation is being closely monitored and that steps are being taken to address the shortfall. While no specific timeline has been given for a full return to normal supply, officials say efforts are ongoing to improve generation capacity.
The development highlights the ongoing challenges facing the country’s energy sector, particularly during periods when hydroelectric output declines. For now, residents of Freetown will have to adjust to the rotating schedule as authorities work toward restoring stable electricity supply.
