BRUSSELS, Belgium – The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Mines and Energy, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HYDRONEO, a France-based independent power producer specializing in small-to-medium-scale hydropower development across West and Central Africa.
The agreement was signed on the margins of the Liberia–EU Business Forum in Brussels and witnessed by Teeko Tozay Yorlay Sr., Liberia’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary near Paris.
20MW Hydropower Project for Nimba
Under the MoU, HYDRONEO will support the development, financing, construction, and operation of a proposed 20-megawatt hydroelectric power plant in Nimba County, with an estimated investment of US$55.8–60 million.
The project is expected to significantly strengthen Liberia’s national electricity grid and expand access to reliable, clean energy—particularly in Nimba County and surrounding regions.
Officials say the initiative is projected to:
- Increase Liberia’s overall energy generation capacity
- Promote sustainable economic growth
- Create more than 1,000 jobs during the three-year construction phase
- Improve electricity access for households and businesses
- Enhance long-term energy security
A HYDRONEO technical delegation is expected to arrive in Liberia within six weeks to begin feasibility assessments and on-site technical studies.
Paris Engagement Laid Foundation
The Brussels signing builds upon high-level discussions held on October 9, 2025, at the Embassy of Liberia in Paris. That meeting brought together Hon. Kou Meapeh Gono, Superintendent of Nimba County, and HYDRONEO Chief Executive Officer Samuel Zekri.
Following technical consultations involving the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Liberia Electricity Corporation, the proposed Kokula site in Yekepa, Nimba County, was identified for feasibility evaluation.
Once operational, the plant is expected to generate approximately 20 megawatts of electricity, substantially improving reliable power access in the county and contributing to national grid stability.
Employment and Local Economic Impact
HYDRONEO CEO Samuel Zekri described the initiative as a milestone in Liberia’s energy advancement. The project’s construction phase is projected to generate over 1,000 employment opportunities for Liberians, including engineers, technicians, masons, ironworkers, and other skilled professionals.
Local leaders have welcomed the development.
Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono expressed appreciation for the company’s decision to invest in Nimba County.
“This project symbolizes hope and progress for our people. The County Administration pledges its full support to ensure the successful implementation of this vital energy initiative,” she said.
She noted that expanding electricity access remains one of Liberia’s most urgent development priorities and emphasized that the project aligns with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development by stimulating job creation and local economic transformation.
Strengthening Liberia–France Cooperation
Ambassador Yorlay commended the partnership as evidence of Liberia’s growing attractiveness for responsible investment.
“This agreement reflects Liberia’s readiness for sustainable growth. The Embassy remains fully committed to supporting this partnership through to successful implementation,” he stated.
The Embassy in Paris has been credited with facilitating the engagement and advancing strategic cooperation between Liberia and France in the areas of energy and infrastructure.
About HYDRONEO
HYDRONEO is a French independent power producer and developer specializing in small- to medium-scale hydropower projects across West and Central Africa. The company designs, finances, builds, and operates sustainable hydroelectric facilities, working in partnership with governments and local communities to strengthen national electricity systems while prioritizing environmental responsibility and local capacity building.
If successfully implemented, the 20MW hydropower plant in Nimba County would mark one of the most significant private-sector energy investments under the current Liberia–EU engagement framework, reinforcing Liberia’s drive toward cleaner, more reliable, and economically transformative power generation.
Follow The Liberian Post on Facebook and X (formerly twitter)
