By Stephen N. Sonpon
MONROVIA, Aug. 14 (LINA) – The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) has officially granted the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) a generation license to operate the 20-megawatt solar power plant at Mount Coffee, marking a significant milestone in Liberia’s efforts to expand renewable energy generation and improve electricity supply.
The license was issued during a ceremony attended by officials of LERC, LEC, the Ministry of Mines and Energy, local authorities, members of the media and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the ceremony in Monrovia Thursday, August 13, 2026, the LERC Commissioner Cllr. Kla Edward Toomey II said the licensing process had been lengthy, with LEC required to satisfy a number of regulatory and technical requirements before the authorization could be granted.
Cllr. Toomey II said discussions and consultations with LEC began last year and continued over several months, culminating in the corporation’s fulfillment of the requirements necessary for the issuance of the generation license.
He emphasized that the license is more than a ceremonial document or administrative formality, describing it as a binding regulatory instrument that establishes standards for performance, accountability, safety, efficiency and service delivery.
According to the LERC Commissioner, the license places a clear obligation on LEC to operate in accordance with Liberia’s electricity law, applicable regulations, technical standards and the specific terms and conditions attached to the authorization.
Cllr. Toomey called on LEC to remain responsive to customers, improve the reliability and quality of electricity supply, reduce technical and commercial losses, and ensure that its operations are transparent and financially sustainable.
He stressed that reliable electricity remains critical to Liberia’s economic and social development, noting that dependable power is essential for businesses, schools, hospitals, employment creation and improving the quality of life of citizens.
The Commission assured LEC that while it would exercise its regulatory responsibilities independently and firmly, it would also remain constructive, fair and supportive of initiatives aimed at strengthening Liberia’s electricity sector.
“Regulation is not designed to obstruct the utility,” the Commission noted, emphasizing that effective regulation is intended to create an orderly, accountable and predictable environment where electricity providers can operate efficiently while protecting the interests of consumers and the public.
The Commission congratulated LEC’s Board, management and employees on the issuance of the license, urging them to view the occasion as a renewed commitment to improved performance, greater accountability and better service delivery.
The Commission explained that technical challenges associated with determining historical boundaries had delayed the completion of the survey but assured residents that the matter is expected to be addressed within the next two months.
The Commission also disclosed that the electrification of Harrisburg Township is ongoing, with LEC expected to fully electrify the area within the next two months.
LERC said the move is intended to ensure that communities hosting major energy infrastructure also benefit from improved access to electricity.
Receiving the License, LEC Deputy Managing Director for Operation, Thomas Gongewon said the issuance of the license marks an important step toward strengthening Liberia’s renewable en
He added that the issuance of the license clears an important regulatory requirement for the operation of the 20MW solar facility and further advances Liberia’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and increase access to reliable and sustainable electricity.