Africa-Press – Liberia. The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC), in fulfillment of its statutory oversight of the energy sector, held a public hearing on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, regarding the renewal of the Liberia Electricity Corporation’s (LEC) import license.
The Commission highlighted its legal mandate to issue licenses and regulate public utilities, especially in electricity generation, importation, transmission, and distribution.
Opening the hearing at a local hotel in Monrovia, LERC Managing Director Augustus Goanue recalled that in January 2021, the Commission granted LEC an import license, authorizing the importation, transmission, and distribution of electricity throughout Liberia. He explained that the 2021 license was valid for five years, and its renewal, as required by regulation, necessitates a public hearing to ensure transparency and public participation.
“In keeping with the law governing electricity regulation, we are here today to conduct this public hearing on LEC’s application,” Goanue stated. “The Commission remains determined and committed to public engagement as a key requirement in this process.”
Goanue called for thorough public review and constructive input to assess LEC’s performance under the previous license and determine the necessity of renewal.
Presenting for LEC, Deputy Managing Director for Operations Thomas Z. Gonkerwon outlined the corporation’s achievements under the current import arrangement. He expressed optimism for future improvements if the license is renewed.
Gonkerwon noted that Liberia currently relies on two primary sources of imported electricity: a regional power pool within the West African sub-region and CIE Energy of Côte d’Ivoire. These sources have significantly supported seasonal power generation and stabilized the domestic supply.
Gonkerwon added that under the proposed renewal, LEC’s strategic operational plan through 2028 features several interventions to address supply gaps and expand nationwide access to electricity. However, he acknowledged major challenges, including substantial revenue losses from illegal connections and widespread electricity theft. He stressed the importance of customers obtaining proper connections and conducting lawful business with LEC to improve service delivery and increase access.
He reiterated LEC’s commitment to combating power theft and illegal connections through a specialized task force and urged the Commission to prioritize the national interest when reviewing the renewal application.
The public hearing convened electricity consumers, development partners, civil society actors, and other stakeholders. The Board of Commissioners of LERC, chaired by Claude J. Katta, presided over the proceedings.
Following the hearing, the Commission will conduct a comprehensive review of the renewal application, including examination of financial accounts and supporting documents submitted by LEC and relevant partners, before making a final determination. The outcome of this review will have significant implications for Liberia’s electricity sector.
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