Liberia has begun construction of its first solar farm, a US$90 million project expected to generate 20 MW of electricity by 2025. The solar facility will house 30,000 panels, marking a major step toward addressing the country's energy challenges.
First-Ever Solar Farm
The Liberian energy sector has reached a significant milestone with the commencement of the country's first solar farm. The groundbreaking ceremony was led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai in Harrisburg, Montserrado County. This solar plant marks a crucial step toward addressing Liberia's long-standing energy challenges.
The project — valued at US$90 million and funded by the World Bank — is expected to generate 20 megawatts (MW) of electricity. With the completion date set for August 2025, this solar facility will play a pivotal role in boosting the country’s electricity capacity. This 25-hectare facility will house 30,000 advanced solar panels. These panels are projected to generate 30 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy annually.
In his remarks at the groundbreaking event on Friday, October 11, 2024, President Boakai highlighted the transformative nature of the project. He said, “This solar farm represents a significant leap forward for our energy sector. It is not just an investment in technology but in our future, providing reliable power for all Liberians.”
Boosting Abia's Economy with Solar Power
In addition to improving security, street lights are also expected to have a positive economic impact. Prince Okey Kanu mentioned that the project is part of the state's plan to create a 24-hour economy in urban areas like Umuahia and Aba.
"The goal is to extend business hours well into the night, allowing shops and businesses to operate round the clock," he said. With adequate lighting, businesses will be more willing to stay open late, creating more jobs and boosting the local economy.
Solar street lights will also reduce the state’s reliance on traditional power sources, which are often unreliable. By using solar energy — a clean and renewable resource — the state is ensuring that the lights will continue to work even during power outages. This creates a more stable environment for both businesses and residents.
Addressing Liberia's Energy Shortages
Liberia has long faced severe energy shortages. The country’s reliance on the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant has proven insufficient, particularly during the dry season when water levels drop. This has left many areas vulnerable to blackouts, forcing businesses and households to turn to costly diesel generators.
The introduction of the solar plant is expected to ease this burden. By providing a stable and renewable source of energy, it will help to reduce Liberia’s dependence on the hydropower plant, ensuring a more reliable supply of electricity throughout the year.
The facility will feature 52 advanced inverters, four smart transformers, and 500 meters of underground wiring. These technologies will improve the efficiency and resilience of Liberia’s electricity grid. Additionally, the solar facility will be equipped with real-time monitoring systems to ensure optimal performance, further enhancing the reliability of the energy supply.
Economic Impact of the Solar Farm
Beyond solving energy shortages, the solar farm is set to bring significant economic benefits to Liberia. President Boakai emphasized the job creation potential of the project, noting that hundreds of construction jobs will be available during the building phase. Once operational, the solar farm will offer long-term employment opportunities in maintenance and operations.
A US$2 million grant associated with the project is also expected to boost local solar firms. This will encourage innovation and entrepreneurship within Liberia’s renewable energy sector. With support from this initiative, local businesses can develop and thrive, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
For businesses that have long struggled with the inconsistent power supply, the solar facility will offer a more affordable and stable source of electricity. This is expected to lower operating costs for many companies and encourage investment in various industries.
President Boakai stressed the importance of affordable energy for the Liberian population. "Access to consistent power will reduce costs for companies and households alike. It will foster investment and drive growth in our economy, while also lifting the burden of high energy costs for everyday Liberians," he said.
Energy Independence and Future Growth
President Boakai sees the solar farm as a critical step toward Liberia’s energy independence. "This is a critical step in reducing our dependence on imported fuels and moving toward energy independence," he stated during the ceremony.
With the completion of the solar farm in 2025, Liberia is poised to make significant progress in meeting its growing energy needs. The solar farm will not only help to stabilize the energy supply but will also support the country’s economic growth and development.
The project stands as a testament to Liberia’s commitment to renewable energy. By investing in solar power, the country is taking meaningful steps toward a sustainable and prosperous future. As Liberia continues to move forward, the solar plant will remain a symbol of progress and hope for the nation’s energy sector.