The World Bank has announced a $2 million grant to kickstart the development of Liberia’s first utility-scale solar power plant. Georgia Wallen, the World Bank’s Country Manager for Liberia, revealed that the funds will be utilized to hire a transaction advisor who will assist in managing the competitive bidding process for solar Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
Laying the Groundwork for Solar Development
The grant will also facilitate crucial feasibility studies, including the creation of environmental and social frameworks, to support the introduction of private-sector solar photovoltaic (PV) plants in the country. Wallen highlighted the importance of this project, stating, “Through this project, we are laying the foundation for utility-scale solar PV plants in Liberia to power homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses across the country.”
A Hybrid Energy Model for Liberia
This initiative will introduce a hybrid energy model, combining solar power generation with Liberia’s existing hydropower infrastructure. By utilizing cost-effective solar energy during the dry seasons, the model aims to mitigate energy supply challenges while enhancing efficiency. The solar facility will be located at the Mount Coffee Hydropower Station, leveraging existing infrastructure to boost capacity and reduce reliance on expensive thermal power generation.
Driving Sustainable Growth and Expanding Renewable Energy
Wallen expressed optimism that this solar project will pave the way for further solar energy development in Liberia. She emphasized the need for swift and effective results, especially in line with the Liberia Rising 2030 vision. This vision focuses on directing public investments toward infrastructure and human capital development to increase the production of goods and services, boosting the country’s economy through both exports and import substitution.
Future Expansion Plans: 70MW Solar PV Power
Looking ahead, Liberia plans to add an additional 70MW of solar PV power. This goal could be achieved faster with increased private sector investments.
Regional Cooperation and Solar Energy Projects
In July 2024, Liberia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) under the World Bank-funded $16 million Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE). This project involves regional cooperation with Sierra Leone, Chad, and Togo. At the signing ceremony, held at the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) office in Monrovia, LEC’s CEO Monie Ralph Captan reiterated the corporation’s commitment to expanding the renewable energy capacity at Mount Coffee. The expansion aims to increase Liberia’s renewable energy bandwidth by more than 50%, solidifying the country’s focus on sustainable energy development.