As Locals Question LEC Solar Power License
Monrovia, Liberia – Citizens, regulators, and power sector officials converged on Friday, April 17, for a crucial public hearing as the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) began deliberations on a proposed solar power generation license for the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), marking a significant step toward expanding electricity access in rural Liberia.
Addressing community members at the Divinity Lutheran Church, LERC Managing Director Augustus V. Goanue emphasized that the hearing forms part of a legal requirement under the 2015 electricity law, which mandates public consultation before any operational license is granted.
Director Goanue described commission as a “bridge” between service providers like LEC and consumers, ensuring transparency and accountability in the sector. “This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand what is being proposed in your community, urging residents to engage constructively rather than confrontationally. We are here to listen, clarify concerns, and make informed decisions,” the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Claude J. Katta narrated.
As part of larger national initiatives to provide access to dependable and sustainable energy, the hearing concentrated on LEC’s proposal to build and run a solar power plant meant to provide electricity to Harrisburg and the surrounding areas. The hearing’s conclusion is anticipated to have an impact on whether LEC moves forward with the solar project, which has the potential to greatly increase the region’s electrification and economic activity.
Acting Deputy Managing Director Thomas Z. Gonkerwon, for his part, cautioned that Liberia’s power shortage, particularly during the dry season, might drastically deteriorate without immediate action, leaving thousands of customers in the dark for extended periods of time.
The hearing, held in Morris Farm, forms part of a legal requirement under the 2015 Electricity Law, which mandates public consultations before licenses are granted for major energy projects. The hearing, held in Morris Farm, forms part of a legal requirement under the 2015 Electricity Law, which mandates public consultations before licenses are granted for major energy projects.
Gonkerwon explained that the gap might surpass 100 megawatts in the absence of solar assistance, necessitating ongoing load shedding throughout towns. “This is not just a project; it is a strategic intervention. We must diversify our energy sources to ensure stable, affordable, and reliable electricity,” he narrated.
During the presentation, he told the gathering that the planned solar expansion is expected to significantly cut the deficit, reducing outages and improving supply consistency, especially during peak dry months. Gonkerwon did concede, though, that the regulator, not LEC, is still in charge of power rates, which will be determined by a more thorough examination of production costs for all energy sources.
The hearing highlighted the public’s rising need for openness in Liberia’s faltering energy industry by giving locals a unique chance to directly confront legislators on matters ranging from affordability to service dependability. Before deciding whether to grant the license, the LERC is expected to consider the hearing’s comments.
Reported by: Prince Saah
