The Government of Liberia has taken another step toward expanding clean energy access by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AfriLight Energy, a renewable energy company based in Mali. The agreement aims to support the development of a 50 MW solar power plant along with a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which is expected to improve electricity supply and strengthen the country’s energy infrastructure.
The MoU was signed by Liberia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, R. Matenokay Tingban, on behalf of the Ministry of Mines and Energy, while AfriLight Energy was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Ousman Coulibaly. The agreement marks the beginning of a partnership focused on supporting Liberia’s transition toward renewable energy and increasing access to reliable electricity.
According to the Ministry, the project will be implemented through the Department of Energy under the leadership of Deputy Minister for Energy Charles Umehai. It forms part of the Government of Liberia’s broader strategy to expand electricity access, promote sustainable development, and encourage private sector participation in the country’s energy sector.
The proposed project will combine a 50 MW solar power generation facility with a Battery Energy Storage System. The battery system will store excess electricity produced during periods of high solar generation and supply it to the national grid during the evening or when solar production is low. This combination is expected to improve grid stability, reduce power outages, and provide a more reliable electricity supply across Liberia.
The government believes the project could deliver significant economic and social benefits if successfully implemented. A more dependable electricity supply is expected to support industrial development, encourage business growth, and lower operating costs for small and medium-sized enterprises that currently rely on expensive diesel generators. Improved electricity access would also benefit key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, education, and healthcare by increasing productivity and supporting service delivery.
The project is also expected to create employment opportunities during its construction phase for Liberian engineers, technicians, construction workers, and other skilled and semi-skilled workers. Once operational, the facility will require long-term operation and maintenance, creating additional jobs while supporting technology transfer and capacity building for local professionals in the renewable energy sector.
The Ministry of Mines and Energy said the agreement reflects the government’s commitment to developing modern and sustainable energy infrastructure through partnerships with private companies. Officials believe the successful implementation of the solar and battery storage project will strengthen investor confidence in Liberia’s renewable energy sector and encourage further investments in clean energy projects. The initiative also aligns with the country’s development priorities and broader global efforts to promote renewable energy and address climate change.
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