The proposed power plant is set to become a cornerstone of Liberia’s energy future.
Monrovia — In a pivotal move to strengthen Liberia’s energy infrastructure, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai hosted a high-level consultation at the Executive Mansion with representatives from key energy sector stakeholders.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
The meeting included Mohammed M. Sherif, General Manager of TRANSCO CLSG, and Arnon Stephen, Senior Representative of Genser Energy, to discuss the construction of a 270MW hybrid natural gas and thermal power plant in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
The proposed power plant is set to become a cornerstone of Liberia’s energy future, with plans to expand the country’s power generation capacity, enhance grid stability, and stimulate economic growth.
The plant will be built in two phases: the first phase, set to begin within 18 months, will deliver 120MW of power, with the second phase expected to bring the total capacity to 270MW within 12 months by incorporating a combined steam cycle for improved efficiency.
President Boakai emphasized the importance of mobilizing private sector investment to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable electricity for all Liberians. “No nation can build a thriving economy without sustainable electricity,” he said. The President further noted that the project would be a catalyst for industrialization, job creation, and broader economic development.
Once operational, the Genser Energy Hybrid Gas Power Plant will reduce Liberia’s reliance on seasonal hydropower and expensive electricity imports, ensuring greater energy independence.
The facility will incorporate advanced cryogenic fuel storage and gas turbine technologies to provide low-emission, cost-effective, and stable power generation.
The project aligns with Liberia’s energy needs by aiming to expand access to reliable electricity, addressing long-standing power shortages, and improving grid reliability, particularly during the dry season.
It will also support regional energy integration by leveraging the TRANSCO CLSG interconnection network, offering a dedicated power supply to large industrial consumers, such as mining companies, factories, and commercial hubs.
Sherif reaffirmed the importance of regional partnerships for the success of the project, stating, “The development of this hybrid gas power plant marks a pivotal shift in Liberia’s energy future. With regional partnerships and private sector investment, Liberia is poised to create a resilient, sustainable power sector to meet growing demand for reliable electricity.”
Before meeting with President Boakai, TRANSCO CLSG’s delegation and Genser Energy’s senior management held extensive discussions with the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), Ministry of Mines and Energy, the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC), and the National Investment Commission (NIC) to ensure the project aligns with Liberia’s energy policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment strategies.
Genser Energy’s Senior Representative underscored the company’s commitment to providing innovative, long-term energy solutions for Liberia. He highlighted the significant prospects of the project and encouraged the government to leverage this opportunity to enhance the country’s energy sustainability. “Genser Energy has a proven track record of delivering large-scale power projects across West Africa.
This initiative reflects our vision for Liberia — a country with immense economic potential that can be unlocked through sustainable energy infrastructure,” he stated.
Beyond power generation, the project is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract foreign direct investment (FDI), and strengthen Liberia’s industrial base.
Sherif called the plant “a game changer,” noting that the project embodies the government’s commitment to improving quality of life and spurring nationwide economic growth. He also emphasized that integrating advanced natural gas technology would help shift Liberia toward a lower-carbon energy mix, supporting the country’s alignment with global sustainability goals.
Sherif assured that the project would not only provide low-emission energy but also stimulate local economies and create jobs.
He revealed that Genser Energy plans to establish a technical university and initiate workforce training programs to develop the local skills needed to operate and maintain the facility. Additionally, Genser Energy intends to build a new hospital to support the community’s healthcare needs.
Jeff B. Blibo, Chairman and CEO of the National Investment Commission, praised Genser Energy as a valuable partner in addressing Liberia’s energy needs. “Liberia’s goal is to ensure a stable and diverse energy supply that can support sustained economic growth,” Blibo said. He added that by diversifying the country’s energy mix, Liberia would reduce its dependence on a single external source, thereby enhancing energy security.
The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) has committed to expediting regulatory approvals, while the NIC is working to streamline investment incentives, tax exemptions, and land acquisition processes to facilitate the project’s development.
With President Boakai’s endorsement and continued inter-agency collaboration, the Genser Energy 270MW Hybrid Gas Power Plant is now set to move forward with investment discussions, regulatory processing, and implementation planning.
Sherif emphasized the project’s long-term potential, stating, “We see this as a lasting partnership,” adding that TRANSCO CLSG is fully committed to ensuring the seamless integration of the project into the regional power network.
As Liberia moves ahead with this transformative energy initiative, the Genser Energy Hybrid Gas Power Plant is poised to play a key role in reshaping the country’s energy landscape, unlocking its economic potential, and providing reliable power for generations to come.
