Liberia’s Energy Sector Transformation: A New Dawn with TotalEnergies Partnership
Liberia has embarked on a transformative journey in its energy sector, marked by the signing of four Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) with TotalEnergies, a global energy giant. This landmark agreement, signed in Paris on September 17, 2025, grants TotalEnergies exploration and production rights for offshore Blocks LB-6, LB-11, LB-17, and LB-29 in the Liberian Basin. The deal, pending presidential endorsement and legislative ratification, signifies Liberia’s re-entry into the upstream petroleum sector after a decade-long hiatus. This partnership is not only Liberia’s first upstream petroleum agreement in over a decade but also represents one of the most substantial foreign direct investments in the country’s oil and gas industry since the early 2010s. It underscores the growing confidence in Liberia’s hydrocarbon potential and its revitalized offshore petroleum program.
TotalEnergies’ entry into Liberia is a significant endorsement of the country’s reformed regulatory framework and the potential for substantial discoveries. The company’s global expertise in deepwater exploration and its commitment to sustainable practices align with Liberia’s vision for responsible resource development. This partnership promises not only resource development but also capacity building, knowledge transfer, and sustainable economic growth for Liberia. The LPRA, as the independent regulator, is committed to ensuring transparency, safety, and sustainability throughout the exploration and production phases.
The signing of these PSCs symbolizes a turning point for Liberia’s energy future. It not only rekindles the country’s offshore petroleum program but also signals a new era of international collaboration and investment. This partnership is expected to attract further interest from global exploration firms, boosting Liberia’s profile in the international petroleum market. The agreements are designed to maximize long-term value for both Liberia and its international partners, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.
These agreements, stemming from Liberia’s 2024 Licensing Round, are structured to adhere to international standards of transparency, environmental responsibility, and local participation. Each contract incorporates provisions for environmental and social safeguards, ensuring responsible resource management and minimizing potential environmental impacts. Transparent revenue management mechanisms are embedded within the agreements, guaranteeing accountability and equitable distribution of benefits. Furthermore, robust local content requirements are included to maximize the participation of Liberian businesses and workforce in the project, fostering local economic development and capacity building.
TotalEnergies, with its extensive experience in deepwater exploration, views Liberia as a promising frontier with significant potential for large-scale discoveries. The company’s strategy focuses on diversifying its exploration portfolio in high-potential new oil-prone basins, and Liberia’s offshore blocks fit perfectly within this strategic framework. TotalEnergies is committed to leveraging its expertise in deepwater operations to achieve cost-effective and low-emission developments, ensuring that the project aligns with global sustainability goals.
The LPRA, as the independent regulator of Liberia’s upstream petroleum sector, plays a crucial role in ensuring transparent, safe, and sustainable operations. The agency oversees licensing, compliance, and governance within the sector, aiming to maximize long-term value for both the Liberian people and international partners. The signing of these PSCs marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s pursuit of energy independence and economic diversification, positioning the country for a brighter and more prosperous future. The LPRA’s commitment to responsible resource management ensures that the benefits of this partnership are shared equitably and sustainably. The agreements are expected to enhance Liberia’s energy security, contribute to economic growth, and create opportunities for local communities.
