The Government of Liberia, in partnership with the World Bank, is embarking on a groundbreaking project to revolutionize the country’s energy sector. With a total projected budget of US$96 million, Liberia is set to witness the construction of its first solar farm and the expansion of the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant in Montserrado County.
In an exclusive interview with the NEW DAWN, Philip Firley, the Corporate Communication Director of the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), revealed exciting details about the upcoming projects. The Mount Coffee expansion project will see the plant’s capacity increase from 88 Megawatts to 126 Megawatts, while the new Solar Energy Farm Project will generate an additional 20 Megawatts of power. Additionally, the St. Paul hydropower dam (SP2) is expected to produce between 200-250 Megawatts of electricity.
Firley highlighted that the blueprint and engineering designs for the solar farm construction are already underway, with the project set to commence soon. The expansion of Mount Coffee and the solar farm will be located at the same site, streamlining the implementation process.
With an energy demand of 400 Megawatts, the completion of these projects will significantly improve access to electricity for Liberians. Firley expressed optimism that the projects will be successful and urged the public to be patient as efforts are being made to address the country’s longstanding electricity challenges.
A recent visit by a high-power delegation from the World Bank West Region office and the Ministry of Mines and Energy to the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant marked a significant step towards the realization of these projects. Led by Franz Drees-Gross, Director of Infrastructure in the World Bank’s Africa West region, the team assessed the location for the Solar Farm and the expansion of Mount Coffee.
The visit was in line with President Boakai’s commitment to the energy sector, as expressed during the Energy Sector Round Table at the Executive Mansion. Liberia’s journey to overcome its electricity challenges, stemming from years of civil war, is gaining momentum with the support of key stakeholders and international partners.
As Liberia prepares to embrace sustainable energy solutions, the future looks bright for a nation eager to harness the power of renewable resources. Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative project that promises to bring light and progress to the people of Liberia.
