By P. Vangerline Kpotoe
MONROVIA, June 18 (LINA) – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has applauded President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., and the Government for commissioning the country’s first utility-scale 20-megawatt solar plant in Harrisburg, Montserrado County.
According to a statement issued recently, the Agency noted that the project is more than new infrastructure, as it is a turning point for Liberia’s energy and climate goals.
The EPA recognizes the project as a major contribution to Liberia’s efforts to combat climate change and implement its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) under the Paris Agreement.
Liberia has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 64 percent by 2035, a target that will require substantial investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate-smart infrastructure, and low-carbon development pathways.
The plant proves the government is serious about delivering reliable, affordable, clean electricity while cutting emissions.
The benefits go beyond the environment. More solar power means stronger energy security, less reliance on expensive fuel, and eventually lower electricity bills. It also means better power for hospitals, schools, and businesses, plus new jobs in Liberia’s growing green economy.
As Liberia continues implementing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development, the EPA encourages the Government and relevant institutions to build upon this success by expanding renewable energy investments across the country. This includes increasing solar generation capacity, investing in energy storage technologies, strengthening transmission and distribution networks, and promoting decentralized renewable energy solutions for communities, public institutions, and businesses.
The EPA thanked the Liberia Electricity Corporation, Ministry of Mines and Energy, Ministry of Finance, development partners, and every team that made the plant possible.
Now, the agency is urging the government to build on this momentum in the direction of adding more solar capacity, investing in battery storage, upgrading transmission lines, and rolling out smaller, decentralized renewable systems for communities and public institutions.
“Reliable, affordable energy is the backbone of development,” the EPA said. “This plant shows Liberia can grow the economy, protect the environment, and build climate resilience at the same time.”
The EPA reaffirmed its support for cutting emissions, promoting clean energy, and strengthening environmental governance. It closed by congratulating President Boakai again and calling on all Liberians to back the push for more renewable energy nationwide.