Liberia’s First Solar Farm
Liberia’s energy sector has reached a major milestone with the commencement of construction on its first solar farm. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai led the groundbreaking ceremony for the US$90 million project in Harrisburg, Montserrado County, marking a critical step toward solving the nation’s long-standing energy challenges.
Funded by the World Bank, the new solar power facility is expected to generate 20 megawatts (MW) of electricity by its completion in August 2025. The 25-hectare farm will house 30,000 advanced solar panels and is projected to generate 30 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy annually, significantly boosting the country’s power capacity.
In his remarks at the groundbreaking event on Friday, October 11, 2024, President Boakai highlighted the transformative nature of the project. He said, “This solar farm represents a significant leap forward for our energy sector. It is not just an investment in technology but in our future, providing reliable power for all Liberians.”
Addressing Liberia’s Energy Shortages
Liberia has long struggled with severe energy shortages. The country’s reliance on the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant is often insufficient, particularly during the dry season when water levels drop. This vulnerability leads to frequent blackouts, forcing many businesses and households to depend on costly diesel generators.
The new solar plant is expected to ease this burden by providing a stable, renewable source of energy. It will help reduce Liberia’s dependence on the single hydropower plant and ensure a more reliable supply of electricity year-round.
The facility will feature 52 advanced inverters, four smart transformers, and 500 meters of underground wiring to improve the efficiency and resilience of Liberia’s electricity grid. Real-time monitoring systems will also be installed to ensure optimal performance and enhance the reliability of the energy supply.
Economic and Community Impact
Beyond addressing energy shortages, the solar farm is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Liberia. President Boakai emphasized the project’s potential for job creation, noting that hundreds of positions will become available during the construction phase. Once operational, the farm will also offer long-term employment in maintenance and operations.
A US$2 million grant associated with the project is also expected to boost local solar firms, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship within Liberia’s renewable energy sector. This initiative will help local businesses develop and thrive, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
For businesses that have long struggled with an inconsistent power supply, the solar facility will offer a more affordable and stable source of electricity. This stability is expected to lower operating costs for many companies and encourage investment across various industries.
President Boakai stressed the importance of affordable energy for the Liberian population. “Access to consistent power will reduce costs for companies and households alike. It will foster investment and drive growth in our economy, while also lifting the burden of high energy costs for everyday Liberians,” he said.
Energy Independence and Future Growth
President Boakai sees the solar farm as a critical step toward Liberia’s energy independence. “This is a critical step in reducing our dependence on imported fuels and moving toward energy independence,” he stated during the ceremony.
With its completion in 2025, Liberia’s solar farm will significantly help meet the country’s growing energy needs. The project will not only help stabilize the power supply but also support broader economic growth and development.
The project underscores Liberia’s commitment to renewable energy. By investing in solar energy, the country is taking a meaningful step toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. As Liberia continues to develop, this solar plant will stand as a key symbol of progress for its energy sector.
