Harrisburg, Montserrado County – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., officially broke grounds for Liberia’s first-ever utility-scale solar plant in Liberia on October 11, 2024.

This development marks a major milestone in the country’s strategic pursuit of clean and renewable energy solutions.

In his remarks, the President emphasized the critical importance of addressing Liberia’s power shortages, especially during the dry season, when water levels drop and hydroelectric production declines. The integration of solar energy, which is more abundant and cost-effective during these times, is a key component of the Administration’s plan to diversify Liberia’s energy mix and reduce energy costs for citizens and businesses alike.

“My administration attaches the highest level of priority to the supply of adequate, reliable, and affordable energy,” the President said.

“Without such energy, our ARREST Agenda will face major challenges, affecting everything from agricultural productivity to the functioning of schools and hospitals,” he noted.

The solar plant, located in Harrisburg, will be the first of several projects aimed at bolstering Liberia’s energy capacity.

The President also reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to other key energy investments, including the expansion of the Mt. Coffee hydroelectric plant and the second hydro plant on the St. Paul River (SP2).

In addition to solar and hydro projects, the President highlighted the Government’s efforts in ensuring that the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) operates sustainably, even in the face of challenges such as power theft and historical inefficiencies.

He reiterated his intent to be deliberate and methodical in making LEC and other state-owned enterprises both efficient and profitable, ultimately ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to the Liberian people.

The Liberian Leader also acknowledged the critical role of development partners in bringing these projects to fruition.

The President extended his gratitude to the World Bank, African Development Bank, European Union, European Investment Bank, the US Government, Japanese Government, KfW, and the West African Power Pool for their continued support and contributions.

“The Government cannot do this alone,” the President noted. “We will need the collaboration of our development partners and the active involvement of the private sector, including Liberian businesses,” he added.

This groundbreaking ceremony represents a vital step forward in Liberia’s efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and support long-term economic growth and development.