In a significant step toward ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for Liberia, the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has signed a landmark agreement with CI Energies and CIE of Côte d’Ivoire. The deal, finalized on February 24, 2025, in Abidjan, marks a new chapter in Liberia’s efforts to meet its growing energy demands and boost economic development.
The agreement, known as a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), ensures that Liberia will receive 50 megawatts of electricity from Côte d’Ivoire over the next three years, from 2025 to 2027. This partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between the two countries and reflects a shared commitment to African solidarity and regional cooperation.
The LEC delegation, led by Interim Managing Director Mr. Thomas Z. Gonkerwon, was warmly received by CI Energies and CIE officials in Abidjan. During the signing ceremony, Mr. Gonkerwon expressed gratitude for the unwavering support of both organizations, emphasizing their role in strengthening Liberia’s energy sector. He highlighted the trust and collaboration that have characterized the partnership, noting that CI Energies and CIE had supplied electricity to Liberia even before all legal formalities were completed—a gesture he described as a true sign of brotherhood.
Mr. DJAHA Kouadio Ambroise, Asset Manager at CI-Energies, praised LEC for its commitment to honoring previous agreements and acknowledged the technical challenges CI-Energies has faced in recent years, which have impacted its production capacity. Despite these hurdles, both parties remain committed to ensuring the success of this new agreement.
The PPA is designed to be renewable after its initial three-year term, but its success depends on all parties fulfilling their roles. Mr. Noumory Sidibe, Director General of CI Energies, stressed the importance of maintaining good standing and adhering to the terms of the agreement. “For CI Energies and CIE to continue effectively supplying LEC with the power it needs, LEC must continue to meet its obligations,” he said.
Mr. Gonkerwon assured his Ivorian counterparts that the Liberian government is fully committed to the energy sector. As part of this commitment, LEC is rolling out prepaid meters for all government institutions (except medical facilities) to promote efficient electricity use. This move is expected to reduce waste and ensure that power is used responsibly.
Electricity is more than just a convenience, it’s a catalyst for economic growth. With this in mind, LEC is working to connect more large-scale users to the national grid, including the Industrial Park along Somalia Drive, which has a demand of around 27 megawatts, and the industrial freezone. These connections are expected to drive industrial activity and create jobs, contributing to Liberia’s broader economic development.
Looking ahead, LEC has ambitious plans to diversify Liberia’s energy sources. A solar farm project is set to go live in October 2025, and repairs to Unit 1 at the Mount Coffee Hydro Power Plant are expected to be completed the same year. Additionally, the plant will be expanded with two new turbines. While these long-term projects focus on green energy, LEC is also increasing its thermal capacity to address energy shortages during the dry season.
The signing of this agreement brings Liberia closer to its national goal of increasing access to electricity for all its citizens. As demand for power continues to grow, LEC is urging its customers to use electricity efficiently and avoid wasteful consumption. With stable power from Côte d’Ivoire and ongoing investments in local energy infrastructure, Liberia is well on its way to building a brighter, more electrified future.
This partnership between LEC, CI Energies, and CIE is more than just a business deal,it’s a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision. Together, these organizations are lighting up homes, powering businesses, and paving the way for a more prosperous Liberia.
