By Lewis S Teh
In frantic efforts to boost the energy sector of the country, the Government of Liberia through the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) has officially licensed a local firm, LIBENERGY to provide energy in three counties in southeast Liberia.
Providing an overview at the official certification and issuance of large micro utility distribution license recently in Monrovia, LERC Managing Director, Augustus V. Goanue said after rigorous scrutiny and review of the application filed by LIBENERGY, the board of LERC decided to approve the application by licensing the company as an energy operator in the southeast, including Maryland, River Gee, Grand Gedeh and parts of Nimba, specifically Tappita District.
He recalled that in May this year, the Liberia Electricity Corporation and LIBENERGY entered into two agreements which accumulated to application from LIBENERGY to LERC for license, adding that following all the processes including conducting a public hearing in Maryland County, the board of the LERC approved the deal.
The Chief Executive Officer of LIBENERGY, Maissa Diagne thanked the LERC and the LEC for giving his company the opportunity.
“This ceremony today marks a significant step in our commitment to excellence and the decentralization of quality electricity services”, Mr. Diagne said.
He said the license isn’t just a certificate but a tangible recognition of his firm’s commitment to providing reliable energy.
River Gee County Superintendent Philip Nyenuh, on behalf of three benefiting counties, lauded the Government of Liberia through the LERC for power to the region.
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“We are grateful to witness this milestone in the history of our country; we all know that electricity plays a cardinal role in the development of any country”, he said.
However, he disclosed that Kaweakan, the commercial hub of the county is not covered, but extolled the joint efforts of the LERC and LEC for restoring hope to the people.
“This is exactly what a responsible government will do for its people by meeting the needs of its people.”
LEC Board Chair Monie Captan, describes the certification as a major milestone in the energy sector, saying “Our primary objective is to increase electricity for the people.”
He suggests to LERC to ensure that new power investors to come into the country to reduce the power constraint.
Mr. Captan urged the LERC to invite potential power producers to Liberia to help in addressing the country’s electricity challenge especially, to connect communities, towns and counties that are still without power.
As people start to get electricity, the demand for it grows and we’re hoping the LERC will take due note, he underscored. Editing by Jonathan Browne
