By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia — In a major stride toward energy stability and independence, the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has sealed a groundbreaking public-private partnership with Société Générale des Travaux Publics L’Eclair (SGTPL) for the construction and deployment of a 40-megawatt (MW) thermal power plant in Monrovia.
The agreement, signed on Friday, October 10, 2025, at LEC’s Waterside Headquarters, marks one of the most ambitious power projects undertaken in recent years. It aims to reinforce Liberia’s energy capacity, particularly during the dry season when hydroelectric output from the Mt. Coffee plant typically declines.
The deal was formalized by LEC Managing Director, Mr. Mohammed M. Sherif, alongside SGTPL President and CEO, Mr. Abdoul Karim Coulibaly, and Project Director, Mr. Alou Badra Diarra. The partnership signals the beginning of what many experts believe will be a new chapter in Liberia’s electricity generation and reliability.
Under the agreement, SGTPL, a renowned Independent Power Producer (IPP) with extensive regional experience, will fully finance, develop, and execute** the 40MW project. The new thermal facility will be situated at LEC’s existing thermal plant site in Four Point, Bushrod Island, and is expected to become operational within seven months. Preparatory work, including site planning and logistics coordination, is already underway.
“This partnership represents a major leap forward for our power sector,” said LEC Managing Director Mohammed M. Sherif. “It aligns perfectly with our long-term goal of achieving energy sovereignty and building a resilient, diversified energy mix that supports national growth.”
While Liberia has made significant progress in extending electricity access, the country still faces recurring challenges, particularly during the dry season when hydropower generation drops. The thermal plant is therefore expected to play a crucial role in maintaining steady supply and reducing reliance on imported energy.
In a related development, Mr. Sherif, who is currently attending the World Bank/IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., announced plans to sign another agreement in the coming days — this time for a 23.75MW solar power plant equipped with 10MWh battery storage.
The forthcoming deal will be signed with Release Utilities Africa Holding B.V., and the plant will be located near the LEC Schiefflin Substation, along the Roberts International Airport corridor. Construction will span approximately 64 weeks, and once completed, the facility will inject clean, renewable energy into the national grid.
According to LEC, the solar project will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mark a pivotal shift toward sustainable energy solutions. It will also enhance Liberia’s energy security by diversifying sources and cutting dependency on fossil fuels.
“This initiative demonstrates LEC’s commitment to expanding access to reliable and affordable electricity while embracing renewable alternatives,” an LEC statement noted.
Together, the 40MW thermal and 23.75MW solar plants are expected to bridge Liberia’s seasonal power gap, especially during the dry months when hydropower capacity drops. The combined output will also support the country’s growing industrial base, boost productivity, and improve electricity access for homes and businesses.
Industry observers have described the dual projects as “transformational,” highlighting how the combination of thermal and solar energy sources could finally stabilize Liberia’s power grid — a long-awaited goal for both citizens and investors.
Beyond stabilizing electricity, the new projects are expected to stimulate job creation, attract investment, and foster industrial growth. The increased generation capacity will also improve power supply to hospitals, schools, and small businesses — sectors that have long struggled with erratic electricity.
As Mr. Sherif continues to champion energy reform and innovation, he emphasized that LEC’s ultimate objective is to achieve “energy sovereignty” — ensuring that Liberia produces enough power to meet its own demand year-round.
With the twin deals in motion, Liberia is taking a bold step toward that vision — blending modern energy technology, public-private partnership, and strategic planning to light up communities and power the nation’s future.
