Liberia’s quest for a stable and sufficient power supply has taken a significant leap forward with the signing of a pivotal power purchase agreement with Ivory Coast. This agreement underscores the Liberian government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s chronic electricity deficit and fostering economic growth through enhanced power availability. The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), the nation’s primary electricity provider, has entered into a three-year renewable contract with CI-Energies and CIE, both based in Ivory Coast, to secure a consistent supply of 50 megawatts of electricity. This partnership marks a crucial step in Liberia’s efforts to bridge the gap between electricity demand and supply, paving the way for increased access to power for businesses and households alike.
The power purchase agreement (PPA) with CI-Energies and CIE represents a sustained commitment to strengthening Liberia’s energy security. Building on previous collaborations, this renewed agreement ensures a reliable source of imported electricity while Liberia continues to develop its domestic generation capacity. The 50 megawatts secured through this agreement will significantly augment Liberia’s current power supply, particularly crucial during the dry season when hydropower generation from the Mount Coffee Hydro Power Plant is typically reduced. This supplemental power source will help mitigate the impact of seasonal fluctuations, contributing to a more consistent and dependable electricity network.
Recognizing the limitations of relying solely on imported electricity, the LEC is concurrently pursuing a multi-pronged approach to bolster domestic power generation. This involves investing in renewable energy sources, such as the solar farm project slated for completion in October 2025, and enhancing existing hydropower infrastructure. The rehabilitation of Unit 1 at the Mount Coffee Hydro Power Plant and the planned expansion of the facility with two additional turbines demonstrate a long-term commitment to sustainable and domestically sourced power. These initiatives aim to reduce Liberia’s dependence on imported electricity and ensure long-term energy independence.
The agreement with CI-Energies and CIE is not simply a transaction but a testament to regional cooperation and solidarity. The Ivorian companies’ willingness to supply Liberia with electricity even before the finalization of legal arrangements underscores a shared commitment to fostering development within the region. This partnership highlights the potential for collaborative solutions to shared challenges, particularly in the crucial area of energy access. For Liberia, this support provides a critical bridge to a more secure energy future.
Beyond the immediate benefits of increased power supply, the agreement holds significant implications for Liberia’s economic development. Reliable access to electricity is a fundamental driver of economic growth, enabling businesses to operate efficiently and creating opportunities for job creation. The LEC’s commitment to connecting more large users, such as the Industrial Park and the industrial free zone, demonstrates a strategic focus on leveraging increased power availability to stimulate industrial activity and economic expansion. These targeted connections will create a ripple effect, attracting investment, generating employment, and driving overall economic progress.
The success of the power purchase agreement hinges on mutual commitment and adherence to the agreed-upon terms. Both Liberia and Ivory Coast have emphasized the importance of fulfilling their respective obligations to ensure the sustainability of the agreement. For Liberia, this includes timely payments and responsible electricity consumption. On the Ivorian side, maintaining a consistent and reliable supply is paramount. This shared responsibility underlines the collaborative nature of the agreement and the understanding that long-term success requires ongoing commitment and cooperation. The future of Liberia’s energy sector, and indeed its economic prosperity, rests on the successful implementation of this agreement and the continued development of domestic power generation capacity.
