The Government of Liberia, through the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA), has held a grand groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a 4.0 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant with a 9.4 MWh lithium-ion battery energy storage system (BESS) in Voinjama, Lofa County.
According to the RREA, the initiative, financed by the World Bank under the Liberia Renewable Energy Access Project (LIRENAP), marks a major milestone in Liberia’s on-going efforts to expand access to clean, reliable, and affordable electricity.
The high-profile event brought together senior government officials, development partners, county authorities, and community representatives, highlighting strong collaboration toward rural electrification and sustainable energy development.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis S. Nyumalin, Sr.; Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy, Charles Umehai; Claude J. Katta, Chairman, Board of Commissioners, Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission; Samuel Bocay Nagbe, Executive Director of RREA; Tabuah Ankoh, World Bank Task Team Lead for Liberia; members of the Lofa County Legislative Caucus; the Superintendent of Lofa County, and representatives from local communities and civil society organizations.
Once completed, the project, integrated with an existing 1.8 MW diesel power plant to form a hybrid mini-grid, will provide modern, reliable, and sustainable electricity to over 50 thousand residents and businesses in load centers of Voinjama, Foya, Kolahun, Massambolahun, Bolahun, and 25 communities between the above-mentioned load centers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Charles Umehai, Deputy Minister of Mines and Energy, described the project as a “turning point in Liberia’s energy transformation agenda”, emphasizing that access to clean energy is vital for national growth and rural empowerment.
Samuel Bocay Nagbe, Executive Director of RREA, expressed appreciation to the World Bank and the Government of Liberia (GOL) for their continued partnership and support.
“This groundbreaking demonstrates our unwavering commitment to bringing modern energy to all parts of Liberia,” Nagbe said. “This project will light up homes, power small businesses, and create new opportunities for the people of Lofa County.”
In her remarks, Tabuah Ankoh, World Bank Task Team Lead, reaffirmed the Bank’s strong support for Liberia’s renewable energy initiatives.
“The World Bank is proud to partner with the Government of Liberia through RREA in delivering sustainable solutions that will improve livelihoods, drive local economies, and foster inclusive development,” she stated.
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis S. Nyumalain, Sr., reinterated government’s commitment to addressing constraints that are hindering socioeconomic development of the country. He reassured citizens of government’s continued efforts in making the country accessible through road construction and increased access to electricity.
The Lofa Solar Hybrid Power Project stands as a cornerstone of Liberia’s broader energy access strategy, aiming to reduce dependence on diesel generation, cut carbon emissions, and foster economic growth through renewable energy investments.
The project will be completed in June 2026 at a cost of over US$10.67 million.