-Proposed IDA-Funded Project Targets Solar Expansion, Hydropower Upgrade, and Regional Energy Integration
The House of Representatives has mandated five of its standing committees to review a proposed US$57 million financing agreement between the Government of Liberia and the International Development Association (IDA) aimed at expanding the country’s renewable energy capacity and strengthening regional power integration.
The committees assigned to scrutinize the agreement include Investment and Concessions, Mines and Energy, Contracts and Monopoly, Ways, Means and Finance, and Public Utilities.
The decision was taken during the House’s regular sitting on May 28, 2026, following the formal submission of the financing agreement by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
According to the Executive’s communication, the agreement seeks to support Liberia’s efforts to rapidly increase access to reliable and sustainable electricity while advancing broader regional energy cooperation among participating countries.
Major Renewable Energy Investments
A key component of the proposed project is the construction of a 30-megawatt solar power plant accompanied by a 12-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system at Mount Coffee Island.
The project will also include the installation of transmission infrastructure necessary to connect the facility to the national electricity grid, helping to improve power supply and system reliability.
In addition, the financing package will support a major expansion of the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant through the installation of four new turbines, each capable of generating up to 10.5 megawatts of electricity.
The planned upgrade is expected to add an additional 42 megawatts of generation capacity to Liberia’s primary hydropower facility, significantly boosting national electricity production.
Concessional Financing from IDA
Under the agreement, the International Development Association—the concessional lending arm of the World Bank Group—will provide Liberia with a US$57 million concessional credit to finance the project.
Government officials believe the investment will help address longstanding energy challenges, improve access to electricity, support economic growth, and enhance the country’s renewable energy portfolio.
The project also aligns with Liberia’s broader development objectives of increasing energy access, promoting clean energy solutions, and reducing dependence on costly power generation sources.
Boakai Urges Swift Ratification
In his communication to the Legislature, President Boakai underscored the importance of the financing agreement and called on lawmakers to expedite its review and ratification.
The President noted that the project represents a critical investment in Liberia’s energy sector and is expected to contribute significantly to national development efforts by improving electricity generation and strengthening energy infrastructure.
Observers say the proposed solar and hydropower investments could help address persistent electricity shortages while supporting the government’s goal of expanding access to affordable and sustainable energy services across the country.
Report Expected Next Week
Following its review, the joint committee is expected to present its findings and recommendations to the House Plenary next Thursday.
If ratified, the financing agreement would pave the way for one of Liberia’s most significant renewable energy investments in recent years and further strengthen the country’s efforts to modernize its energy sector.
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