The Liberian government, in collaboration with the European Union (EU), has launched a five-day site visit to assess the progress of the Light Up South-East (LUSE) Project, a transformative initiative aimed at expanding electricity access to southeastern cities, including Buchanan, Greenville, and Barclayville. The LUSE Project is part of Liberia’s broader strategy to improve energy infrastructure and boost economic development in historically underserved rural regions. The initiative, funded by the EU, aligns with the country’s goal to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, a critical component of Liberia’s post-war economic recovery and development agenda.
Leading the high-profile assessment are Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan and EU Ambassador Nona Deprez, accompanied by representatives from the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), local government officials, and community stakeholders. The delegation will inspect project sites, engage with residents, and evaluate the impact of ongoing installations.
Expanding Energy Access in Southeastern Liberia
The LUSE Project is designed to extend Liberia’s electric grid to previously unconnected areas, reducing reliance on expensive and environmentally harmful diesel generators. Currently, only about 28% of Liberians have access to electricity, with rural areas facing the most significant shortages. The project will expand transmission lines, upgrade power stations, and implement renewable energy solutions to ensure sustainable access to electricity.
EU Ambassador Nona Deprez emphasized the critical role of electrification in fostering economic growth and improving living conditions. “Access to reliable electricity is a game-changer for businesses, schools, hospitals, and overall development,” she stated.
Boosting Local Economies and Enhancing Services
The LUSE Project is expected to spur economic growth by supporting small businesses, improving healthcare services, and facilitating education through stable power supply. With electricity shortages often cited as a major barrier to investment in Liberia, officials hope that the initiative will attract new businesses and industries to the southeast. During the site visit, officials will gather feedback from local communities and assess additional needs to ensure the project meets its objectives effectively. The evaluation will guide future phases of the EU-Liberia energy partnership, ensuring that electricity expansion efforts are inclusive, sustainable, and impactful.
The Liberian government and EU remain committed to strengthening Liberia’s energy infrastructure and bringing much-needed development to the country’s rural and coastal regions.
