As BNE Development Corporation Takes Over Operations
Monrovia, Liberia – BNE Development Corporation has officially bought LIB Solar, marking a strategic change for one of the most well-known last-mile solar suppliers in Liberia and a major step forward for the country’s renewable energy industry. The purchase brings in new management and ownership, and BNE is presenting the move as a component of a larger national plan to improve electricity and fortify Liberia’s energy ecology.
The change, however, comes after years of growth by LIB Solar, which despite ongoing operational and service delivery issues reached over 60,000 families in underprivileged neighborhoods. “This transition is about placing LIB Solar on stronger footing for the future,” said Nicholai Lidow, outgoing Chief Executive Officer of LIB Solar.
He said, “While we made meaningful progress in expanding access, operating in last-mile markets is complex. The transfer of ownership reflects a responsible decision to ensure customers, assets, and the company’s long-term viability are prioritized.”
BNE Development Corporation, a Liberian-owned ecosystem builder operating across energy, finance, agriculture, and digital transformation, described the acquisition as a long-term investment in the country’s sustainable development framework.
“This acquisition is part of BNE’s long-term commitment to strengthening Liberia’s energy ecosystem and contributing to the goal of expanded electrification across the country,” said Natty B. Davis III, Chief Executive Officer of BNE Development Corporation. “LIB Solar provides an important foundation. Our focus is to build strategic partnerships, strengthen systems and processes, and develop a more sustainable model that supports communities and empowers local entrepreneurs.”
Operational oversight during the transition will be led by Elton Barzee Reeves, BNE’s Chief Commercial Officer, who has assumed responsibility for day-to-day management. Reeves said immediate priorities include restoring customer confidence and improving after-sales service delivery. “We are strengthening repair and maintenance processes, enhancing field operations, and improving payment support systems,” Reeves stated. “Service reliability and accountability are our top priorities as we stabilize operations.”
The acquisition, according to industry observers, may signal a sea change for Liberia’s off-grid solar market, which has grown quickly in recent years but is still beset by problems with funding, logistics, and customer support. It is anticipated that under its new ownership, LIB Solar would shift from a traditional solar distributor model to a platform strategy that empowers regional business owners to establish and run solar enterprises in their areas.
The plan places a strong emphasis on increased local involvement in last-mile energy distribution, shared infrastructure, and better affordability. With an initial focus on stabilizing operations and enhancing service performance, BNE affirmed that all current LIB Solar clients will continue to receive support throughout the transition phase. The acquisition underscores growing momentum among Liberian-owned enterprises seeking to reshape key sectors of the national economy through long-term, locally driven investment.
Reported by: Prince Saah
