The Government of Liberia (GoL) has launched a tender to hire consultants for a major renewable energy auction. The project will support the development of a utility-scale solar and battery energy storage system (BESS). The government is inviting expressions of interest from firms with expertise in energy transactions.
Background of the Project
The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) issued the request for expressions of interest (EOI) as part of the Liberia Electricity Sector Strengthening and Access Project (LESSAP). The initiative is funded by a World Bank grant. The government aims to select advisers who will develop legal, technical, commercial, and financial frameworks for the auction.
The project โ which is a crucial part of Liberia's energy transition โ will involve the procurement of up to 70 MW of solar power and 20 MW/60 MWh of BESS. While the precise locations are yet to be confirmed, Buchanan and Yekepa are the likely sites.
Following the auction, the GoL intends to select one or more independent power producers (IPPs) who will finance, build, and operate the facilities. This ambitious project is expected to significantly boost Liberiaโs renewable energy capacity and improve grid reliability across the country.
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Liberia is determined to expand its renewable energy sector, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and improve electricity access for its population. In October 2024, the country began work on its first utility-scale solar plant, a 20 MW facility that is being built at the existing 88 MW Mount Coffee hydropower station.
Scheduled for completion later this year, this plant represents a significant step toward achieving the nationโs energy goals. The upcoming solar-plus-storage auction is seen as another milestone in Liberiaโs energy strategy, which aims to diversify the energy mix and enhance grid stability.
Role of the Consultants
The consultants selected for this project will provide a range of expertise to guide the GoL through the complex process of auctioning the solar and BESS projects. Their roles will include providing technical, environmental, social, legal, financial, and market advisory services.
Consultants will help develop the auctionโs legal and technical frameworks, assist in drafting the necessary contracts, evaluate technical and financial proposals from bidders, and negotiate terms with selected companies. Additionally, the consultants will offer capacity-building support to government officials, thus helping to develop the technical and managerial expertise necessary for future renewable energy projects in Liberia.
The deadline for submitting expressions of interest is February 25, 2025. Consulting firms interested in participating must demonstrate their qualifications and relevant experience, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and transaction advisory services. The firms must also show a proven track record of managing complex transactions, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Firms selected to participate must also bring together a multidisciplinary team that includes experts in legal, financial, commercial, and technical areas. Furthermore, the consortium will need to partner with both international and local legal firms to ensure that all project agreements comply with relevant regulations.
The consultants will be tasked with preparing the necessary documents for the tender, managing the bidding process, and ensuring that the auction attracts qualified bidders capable of financing, building, and operating the energy projects.
The Importance of the Auction for Liberiaโs Energy Future
This solar and battery storage auction is a key component of Liberiaโs long-term energy strategy. The government aims to foster private investment through a transparent, competitive auction process, thus laying a solid foundation for future renewable energy projects.
Consultants will provide vital support throughout the development and implementation of the auction by offering expertise in technical, legal, financial, and commercial areas. They will assist with bid evaluations, negotiations with bidders, and help build the capacity of government officials to manage future projects, thereby guiding the entire tender process from preparation to financial closure.
As Liberia moves forward with its first solar project and prepares for the auction, it strengthens its position as a renewable energy leader in West Africa. The consultant selection is critical for ensuring the success of the project, which will enhance the energy sector and drive economic and environmental sustainability in the country.
