LEC MD Rules Out Privatization

By Jamesetta D. Williams

MONROVIA–The Managing Director of the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), Mohammed M. Sherif, has ruled out the privatization of the state-owned power utility, while unveiling major initiatives aimed at strengthening electricity supply and expanding generation capacity ahead of 2026.

Speaking on ELBC 99.9 FM during an information-packed radio interview on Monday, December 22, 2025, Sherif said the government’s focus is on strategic private-sector participation in power generation, not the sale of LEC.

“LEC is not being privatized. What we are doing is legally engaging the private sector in electricity production to increase supply and support economic growth,” Sherif explained.

He noted that electricity remains a critical driver of national development, stressing that improved power supply multiplies productivity across sectors including mining, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and construction.

Transmission Network under Major Rehabilitation

The LEC Managing Director acknowledged that Liberia’s transmission system remains one of the corporation’s biggest inherited challenges, largely due to post-war emergency interventions that focused on restoring basic electricity rather than long-term stability.

To address this, Sherif disclosed that LEC is aggressively rehabilitating its transmission network and has replaced more than 70 transformers nationwide within the last two to three months.

“Our technicians are working day and night. These improvements are necessary to stabilize power supply and meet growing demand,” he said.

On power generation, Sherif revealed that Unit One of the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant, which has been damaged for nearly four years, is currently undergoing repairs using modern technology to optimize performance.

He also announced progress on the Mount Coffee Extension Project, supported by the World Bank, which is expected to add approximately 44 megawatts to the national grid upon completion.

When combined with existing generation sources, Sherif said the expansion will significantly enhance Liberia’s energy security and reduce dependence on emergency power imports.

Sherif reported that Liberia has experienced over seven months without nationwide load shedding, a marked improvement compared to previous years when outages lasted between eight and twelve hours daily.

“Most complaints today are localized and related to transformer issues, which we are actively addressing,” he stated. He attributed the improved stability to predictive maintenance systems, repairs to thermal generators, improved demand management, and preparations ahead of the dry season.

According to Sherif, Liberia’s current installed capacity stands at about 66 megawatts, supplemented by imported power. However, national demand particularly from mining and industrial sectors is projected to grow significantly.

To bridge the gap, LEC is negotiating with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to add between 120 and 150 megawatts, with long-term projections targeting close to 500 megawatts.

He further disclosed that Liberia is positioning itself as a regional energy player, with over 1,800 kilometers of transmission lines capable of supporting power exports under regional power-pool agreements.

Sherif emphasized that energy remains a top national priority under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s development agenda, noting that electricity has been identified as a major constraint under Liberia’s engagement with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC).

“Electricity affects every aspect of life from factories and businesses to schools and hospitals. Without power, economic growth cannot happen,” Sherif said. He reaffirmed LEC’s commitment to institutional reforms, including improved internal systems, reduced bureaucracy, and enhanced operational efficiency to ensure reliable and sustainable electricity supply for Liberians.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.