Liberia solar power: Impressive 23.75 MW plant unveiled

Liberia is set to significantly enhance its renewable energy capabilities with a new 23.75 MWp solar plant in Mount Coffee, Monrovia. The project, funded by the European Union and developed by Scatec, aims to provide sustainable energy solutions and support the country’s economic growth.

A Landmark Public-Private Partnership for Liberia solar power

Liberia is taking a major leap forward in its renewable energy ambitions with the construction of a new 23.75 MWp solar plant at the Mount Coffee hydroelectric facility in Monrovia. This ambitious project is powered by a $37.9 million grant from the European Union (EU) and will be developed by the leading renewable energy company Scatec under a solar leasing agreement. The initiative aims to boost the country’s energy infrastructure by integrating solar power with Liberia’s existing hydropower resources, creating a more resilient and sustainable grid.

This development builds on the success of earlier projects and is a major step in expanding Liberia’s solar capacity. A key feature of this new plant is the inclusion of a 10 MWh battery storage system, which will be crucial for enhancing grid stability and ensuring a consistent power supply, even when the sun isn’t shining.

The solar plant will be built on a 14-hectare site near the Mount Coffee reservoir, utilizing a combination of ground-mounted and floating solar panels. This innovative hybrid approach includes a 3.75 MWp floating solar array, often called a “floatovoltaic” system. This design not only maximizes energy production on a limited footprint but also helps reduce water evaporation from the reservoir. This project is one of several recent initiatives, including the Lofa Solar Hybrid Power Project, designed to modernize Liberia’s energy sector.

Economic and Environmental Benefits of Liberia solar power

The new solar plant is expected to generate approximately 38.6 GWh of clean electricity annually, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source for Liberia’s growing population. The integration of solar power with the existing 88 MW Mount Coffee hydropower plant will significantly enhance the stability of Liberia’s energy grid, reducing the country’s reliance on expensive imported fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.

The project is part of the EU’s broader efforts to support sustainable development in Liberia, aligning with global commitments to renewable energy and climate change mitigation. Liberia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Gesler E. Murray, emphasized the importance of the project, stating that it will “ensure a reliable, sustainable, and green energy solution for Liberia’s future.”

This initiative reflects a growing regional trend. Scatec, the project’s developer, has also signed an agreement for a 40 MWp solar facility in neighboring Sierra Leone, highlighting a collective move towards clean energy in West Africa.

Liberia’s Renewable Energy Vision with Liberia solar power

Liberia is rich in renewable energy resources, particularly hydropower and solar. The country’s vast river systems and high levels of solar radiation make it an ideal location for developing a diverse and robust renewable energy infrastructure. According to the Liberia Solar Panel Manufacturing Report, the nation aims to achieve 60 MW of on-grid solar capacity by 2030, and this project is a cornerstone of that strategy.

The new solar plant is expected to create around 200 jobs during its construction phase, providing a welcome boost to the local economy and fostering skills in the renewable energy sector. The basics of solar panel manufacturing and installation will become increasingly valuable skills as the country expands its green energy portfolio. Once operational, the plant will contribute to a more stable supply of electricity for homes, businesses, and industries, supporting broader efforts toward rural electrification in Liberia.

The hybrid solar-hydro model at Mount Coffee is particularly strategic for addressing the challenges of climate change. It helps balance energy supply throughout the year, providing consistent power even during periods of low rainfall that might affect hydropower output. This project runs parallel to other key developments, such as the construction on Liberia’s first 20 MW solar plant at Roberts International Airport.

Construction is set to begin in the coming months, with the solar plant expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025. Once completed, the facility will play a pivotal role in Liberia’s energy future, powering economic growth and accelerating the nation’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.

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