Today, May 3, 2024, a significant milestone in Liberia’s energy development will be reached as the Government of Liberia and the European Union (EU) break ground for the construction of two distinct 33KV electricity distribution networks.
The ceremony, which will be held in Buchanan City, Grand Bassa County, signifies a crucial step towards providing essential electricity access to residents in Buchanan, Barclayville and Greenville Cities.
Funded by the European Union’s ‘Rural Electrification Programme,’ with a special focus on the South-eastern region of Liberia, these projects aim to deliver reliable and affordable electricity to underserved communities. Upon completion, the following outcomes will be realized:
•Buchanan: Approximately 12,054 customers will be connected through both single and three-phase pre-paid meters. Additionally, an estimated 825 LED streetlights will be installed to illuminate the city streets.
•Greenville: Over 4,344 households will gain electricity access, and along the 43-kilometer transmission line route, from a planned 2-megawatt mini hydropower plant on the Sinoe River Rapids to Greenville, approximately 200 LED streetlights will be installed.
According to a Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) release, Buchanan’s network will be powered primarily by two dedicated feeders linked to the TRANSCO-CLSG 225/33 KV substation, situated about 5 kilo meters from Buchanan along the Monrovia main road.
For Greenville, initial electricity provision will come from an 850-kilowatt solar power plant near Greenville in Murrayville, supported by an 820 KVA backup generator. Additionally, a 2-megawatt hydropower plant on the Sinoe River Rapids, approximately 43 kilometers from the city center, will further boost electricity generation capacity.
Ambassador Nona Deprez of the European Union Delegation emphasized “the significance of these networks is part of the EU’s commitment to assisting the Liberian Government in providing reliable, accessible, and affordable electricity to its citizens.”
Also, on behalf of the Liberian Government, “The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning emphasized the profound social, economic and development benefits the Rural Electrification projects will bring to Liberia’s Southeastern region. By extending access to electricity to all corners of our land, we surely lead to a transformative change, unlocking the latent potential of our people and revitalize our communities.”
“As we embark on this journey, with Buchanan, Greenville and Barclayville cities, we reaffirm our steadfast dedication to bridging the energy gap and fostering sustainable development. Prioritizing Rural Electrification thus improving livelihoods as well as laying the groundwork for inclusive growth and prosperity across the country,” a Finance Ministry release said.
The release indicated that the Rural Renewable Energy Agency (RREA) has already secured two operations and maintenance companies to manage these projects immediately upon their completion.
