Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) announces that the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has officially submitted a comprehensive application for new electricity tariffs, covering the period from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2028.
The submission is in line with Section 8.1(2) of the 2015 Electricity Law of Liberia, which states that “a licensee may not charge a customer any other tariff other than that determined or approved by the Regulator.”
New Customer Category Proposed
In its proposal, LEC introduces a new customer category— “Government”—in addition to the existing four categories: Social, Residential, Non-Residential, and Medium Voltage. This move seeks to improve billing efficiency and tariff structuring for government institutions. LEC currently operates in Montserrado, Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, Grand Bassa, and Margibi counties.
Background
In December 2024, LERC granted a request by LEC’s Interim Management Team (IMT) to withdraw the Corporation’s earlier tariff application. At the time, LEC cited an ongoing internal transition, with the IMT unfamiliar with the previous application submitted by the former administration.
No Immediate Change in Tariffs
The Commission informs the public that the current tariffs remain in effect until a final decision is reached on the newly submitted proposal.
Public Engagements Ahead
As part of its commitment to transparency and public participation, LERC said it will host a series of public hearings, stakeholder consultations, and outreach initiatives. According to the LERC, these engagements will provide an opportunity for electricity consumers, civil society groups, policymakers, and other stakeholders to review the proposal and offer feedback before the Commission makes a final determination.
“The Commission is committed to ensuring transparency and regulatory best practices throughout the tariff-setting process,” said Claude J. Katta, Chairman, Board of Commissioners.
Commentary
Liberia: Allowing the Use of Railroads in Liberia by Multiplicity of Companies for the Good of the People and Nation:
By: Austin S Fallah, contributing writer
The intricacies of economic development have long been intertwined with the efficient movement of goods and services.
Rail transportation, recognized globally for its capabilities, offers a robust solution to logistical challenges, especially in developing countries like Liberia.
Allowing multiple companies to utilize railroads can significantly enhance social, infrastructural, and economic development while remaining environmentally friendly.
This disquisition compares how countries that embrace multi-operator railroad systems reap the benefits through infrastructure development, job creation, and increased export revenues.
By drawing parallels to successful models in developed nations, this korero hopes to outline a framework for Liberia that could transform its economic landscape through diverse railroad operations.
The global landscape of railroad transport is replete with examples where multiple companies operate within the same rail network, and the dividends of such a system are undeniable.
In countries such as Australia and the United States, the coexistence of various railway companies has facilitated the efficient transport of raw and finished minerals, such as iron ore and coal, which has been pivotal in generating substantial revenue streams.
For instance, in Australia’s Pilbara region, multiple mining companies utilize a shared railroad network to transport iron ore to ports, optimizing logistics and reducing overall environmental impact.
Similarly, in the United States, railroads play a crucial role in the movement of diverse goods, from agricultural products to minerals, enabling economic growth while sustaining local communities.
Railroads are not merely conduits for transporting freight but vital arteries of economic activity.
The model of shared railroad access could greatly benefit Liberia’s burgeoning economy, particularly in transporting resources such as rubber, iron ore, and gold.
Liberia’s geographical advantages, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, and rich mineral resources position it perfectly to develop a railroad system with neighboring countries that could serve multiple companies.
By allowing different companies to operate on the same railroad lines, Liberia can foster an environment conducive to competition and innovation, ultimately enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.
This model encourages investment and presents an opportunity to generate employment significantly.
One of the most tangible benefits of a multi-operator railroad system is job creation, which is desperately needed in Liberia.
The employment opportunities generated by expanding railroad operations encompass various sectors, from construction to operations and maintenance.
Establishing a railroad infrastructure in South Africa led to thousands of jobs in rail services and associated industries, fueling local economies.
This is particularly pertinent for Liberia, where unemployment rates remain high.
By creating a network that accommodates multiple companies, Liberia can harness the potential of its labor force training and employ locals in skilled and unskilled positions.
Moreover, as these companies expanded their operations, demand for ancillary services, such as hospitality, retail, and transportation, contributed to job growth.
Another aspect of economic revitalization through railroads is the significant impact on infrastructure development.
Investing in railroad systems frequently leads to broader infrastructure improvements, as seen in countries adopting similar strategies.
For example, developing a rail system connecting the interior regions to coastal ports in Brazil sparked broader infrastructure investments, including roads, schools, and hospitals.
This ripple effect enhances transport efficiency and supports the well-being of communities along these transport corridors.
Thus, proposing a model where railroad access is shared among multiple companies can catalyze necessary infrastructure investments in Liberia, particularly in education and health services, ultimately uplifting local populations.
Moreover, one of the most persuasive advantages of shared railway systems is the enhanced ability to generate revenue through exports.
Countries integrating rail transport networks into the global market have seen significant fiscal benefits. Canada, for instance, has a well-established railroad system that accommodates various freight companies, resulting in billions of dollars in export revenues annually.
Similarly, as companies transport raw materials like iron ore and rubber from Liberia’s rich reserves to international markets, the nation can expect substantial foreign currency inflows in economic growth and development.
This revenue not only aids national governments but also supports local authorities and communities that host these resources and lands used to construct rail tracks.
It is also crucial to consider the environmental implications of shared railroad use.
In an era marked by increasing concerns regarding climate change, the need fo environmentally friendly transportation solutions is paramount.
Railroads are inherently more sustainable than road transport, as they can carry a larger volume of goods with lower greenhouse gas emissions per ton-mile.
Countries like Germany have invested in “green” rail initiatives that seek to reduce their carbon footprint through electrification and renewable energy sources.
Liberia, keen to position itself as an environmentally responsible nation, can follow this example by mandating that all railway operations adhere to environmentally friendly practices, fostering a collective commitment to sustainable development.
Furthermore, the role of government in this process cannot be underemphasized.
Government engagement is critical regarding successful multi-company railroad systems, government regulations, and frameworks that ensure fair competition while safeguarding the public interest.
The government must actively participate in setting the standards for multi-railroad operations in Liberia.
For example, as part of licensing agreements, companies could be required to invest in local community projects, such as funding for higher education, elementary, junior, and senior high schools, pave roads, and healthcare facilities, aligning their business interests with societal needs.
This public-private partnership ensures that profits from exploiting natural resources also benefit the communities that house these resources, improving quality of life.
Liberia’s location by the Atlantic Ocean opens avenues for leveraging its rail network to develop ports that facilitate international trade.
Countries like China have successfully exploited this concept, connecting their rail system to ports to enhance trade efficiency.
Liberia can create a comprehensive and integrated transport network by investing in rail and port infrastructure.
This integration supports export activities and enables the import of goods that can spur consumer spending and local industry growth.
However, transitioning to a multi-company railway system will require careful planning and investment.
Liberia would need to assess its current railway infrastructure’s capabilities, address existing challenges, and secure the necessary funding for development.
Creating a regulatory framework that attracts private sector investment while managing the accountability of multiple companies will also be critical to the success of such an initiative.
Therefore, stakeholders, government, local communities, private companies, and international donors become vital in navigating the complexities of implementing these changes.
Allowing multiple companies to use Liberian railroads would immensely positively modify the nation’s economic, social, and infrastructural landscapes.
Drawing lessons from countries that have successfully implemented similar railroad systems, Liberia can enhance job creation, improve infrastructure, and optimize the revenue-generating capabilities of its abundant natural resources.
Environmental sustainability should remain a cornerstone of this venture, aligning economic growth with ecological preservation.
Liberia can initiate a transformative journey toward a prosperous future founded on efficient and inclusive railroad operations through strong governmental regulations and public-private partnerships.
Ultimately, such advancements promise financial gain for the government and local communities and secure a better quality of life for Liberians.
The path forward is clear: investment in a multi-operator railroad system could lay the groundwork for a sustainable and rapidly progressing Liberian economy.
