Monrovia, Liberia – February 12, 2025 – The European Union (EU), the EU Member States, the European Investment Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Government of Liberia, through the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), commissioned the Liberia Energy Efficiency and Access Project (LEEAP). This marks a significant milestone in expanding electricity access, improving energy efficiency, and strengthening both human and institutional capacity within Liberia’s electricity sector.

This achievement underscores the commitment of the EU, the Liberian government, and their partners to driving sustainable energy solutions and expanding reliable electricity access for the people of Liberia.

Key Achievements of LEEAP

✅ Connected 39,792 new customers, including:

• 50 health facilities/pharmacies, 65 academic institutions, 43 government/public facilities, 250 small businesses

✅ Developed Critical Infrastructure

• Constructed 45km (66kV) double circuit transmission lines from the Paynesville substation to the RIA substation
• Built new substations at Schefflin (66/22kV) and RIA (66/33kV)
• Expanded 980km of distribution networks across the Paynesville – RIA – Owensgrove Corridor and the Pleebo – Fish Town Corridor

✅ Economic and Social Impact

• Created over 6,000 jobs, with approximately 22% female participation
• Reduced crime rates through improved street lighting and access to electricity in key communities
• Strengthened community bonds, enabling social gatherings, enhanced communication, and local business growth

✅ Capacity Building & Institutional Strengthening

• Trained over 110 staff from LEC, the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA), and the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC)
• Provided essential tools and equipment to improve operational efficiency

Remarks from Key Stakeholders

During the commissioning ceremony, EU Ambassador Nona Deprez highlighted the significant progress made in expanding Liberia’s electricity network, emphasizing the EU’s contribution of EUR 107 M to the sector. This substantial investment makes the EU the main donor in terms of grants and will support Liberia’s fight against climate change, reduce electricity costs and reorient investments in other productive areas.

"This Global Gateway project ensures access to electricity to tens of thousands of customers in Liberia – academic institutions, health facilities, businesses and of course households. It also generated thousands of new jobs for the local population. That is what the Global Gateway is all about – bringing sustainable economic development to our partner countries that builds better future for their inhabitants, said Jozef Síkela, EU Commissioner for International Partnerships.

In a Special Remarks, Vice President Jeremiah Koung thanked the EU and other partners. He also asked the community to pay for the electricity, “Electricity is business. It must contribute to government. It cannot be a liability".

Speaking at the ceremony, LEC Interim Managing Director, Thomas Z. Gonkerwon emphasized the significance of LEEAP in transforming Liberia’s energy landscape.

"The successful completion of this project demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing sustainable and reliable electricity for all Liberians. LEEAP’s impact extends beyond power access—it drives economic growth, creates jobs, and enhances the overall quality of life in communities across the country.”

With this achievement, LEC reaffirms its dedication to further expanding energy access, developing solar energy projects, and strengthening Liberia’s electricity infrastructure.

For media inquiries, please contact our Information and Public Affairs Department on:
📩 [email protected]
📞 +231772006288
🌐 www.lecliberia.com