NM0121 would be applied to the Bumbuna Hydroelectric project in Sierra Leone, which was devastated by a civil war in the 1990s. Sierra Leone presently ranks as the poorest country on the African continent despite abundant freshwater resources, fertile land, mineral resources, fisheries, biodiversity and tourist potential. The country also has virtually no electricity after much of the grid was ruined by war. Two thermal plants and a significant part of the transmission system were destroyed, and the main power plant in Freetown is operating well-below capacity. The only reliable electricity is generated by small, polluting diesel generators. The country relies on expensive imported oil for virtually all its grid and off-grid power supply, and prices are among the highest in the world (over $USc 20 /kWh for public supply).

Completion of the Bumbuna project would bring 50 MW of clean power into the grid and greatly enhance the population's ability for productive economic activity. The project would reduce electricity costs and - by reducing fuel imports - improve the country's balance of trade.