INTRODUCTION
Liberia has seen a growing interest in renewable energy initiatives as the nation strives to improve its energy access and sustainability. The demand for reliable electricity continues to rise in the nation making “renewable energy” a promising solution to address power shortages in reducing the country’s dependence on expensive and polluting fossil fuels. Of recent, Liberia has seen more investments in renewable energy. However, a significant gap to fulfill the need to have abundant and affordable electricity still exists.
By: Daniel T. George, contributing writer
FINDINGS
The World Bank and USAID’s 2021 Annual Report reveals that approximately $65 million was invested in renewable energy projects by the Liberian Government and international organizations during the period 2021 – 2022. Key initiatives were the result of significant investments in renewable energy from both the Liberian government and international partners. These include the World Bank, which provided a $50 million grant to the Liberia Renewable Energy Access Project (LIRENAP). Another came from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Climate Investment Funds (CIF), which allocated approximately $50 million to support Liberia’s renewable energy sector. In 2023, African Development Bank Group (AfDB) Annual Report indicated that the African Development Bank, through the Climate Investment Funds’ Scaling-up Renewable Energy Program (SREP), provided a substantial grant of $23.25 million to support renewable energy projects, including the development of a 9.8 MW hydropower plant at Gbedin Falls. In June of 2024, the World Bank approved a further $45 million under the Regional Emergency Solar Power Intervention Project (RESPITE) to enhance solar power and improve the reliability of Liberia’s electricity grid, as part of a broader effort across West Africa (World Bank).
CONCLUSION
Despite these efforts by the Liberian government and international donors, Liberia still faces significant challenges in expanding access to renewable energy. As of 2023, only about 28% of the population has access to electricity, with renewable energy sources accounting for approximately 10% of the country’s total electricity generation, according to World Bank. The primary barriers to expanding renewable energy in Liberia include infrastructure limitations, high initial investment costs, and a regulatory framework that requires further development to support diversified renewable energy initiatives.
RECOMMENDATIONS
In closing, the government need to prioritize upgrading infrastructure by enhancing grid systems and developing off-grid solutions to energy needs. Efforts should be focused on policy and regulatory reforms, including the creation of comprehensive energy policies and the strengthening of regulatory frameworks. Promoting financial and investment mechanisms is crucial, with an emphasis on encouraging public-private partnerships and supporting innovative financing models. Local capacity should be reinforced through investments in training, education and the promotion of research and development. Additionally, community engagement should be enhanced by conducting public awareness campaigns and involving local communities in energy initiatives. To ensure ongoing progress, it is important to establish monitoring mechanisms, provide regular reports and adjust strategies as necessary. Finally, international support should be leveraged by strengthening collaborations with global partners and seeking technical assistance.
