–Expands Service to Grand Bassa, Rivercess and Bong Counties
By Akoi M. Baysah, Jr.
The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) on November 25, 2025, issued an amended Distribution License to the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), expanding the utility’s service coverage to additional communities in Grand Bassa, Rivercess, and Bong counties.
The amendment represents another major step toward increasing nationwide access to reliable and affordable electricity.
Speaking at the licensing ceremony, the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Hon. Claude J. Katta, commended LEC for its cooperation throughout the amendment process.
“This amended license has been a major undertaking, and I commend the technical team, especially the Legal, Licensing, and Public Affairs Department, for the work done in preparing this document,” Chairman Katta said.
“On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, we present this amended license and urge you to use it for its intended purpose. We expect you to bring electricity to the communities specified so our people can begin to enjoy improved livelihoods.”
Receiving the amended license on behalf of LEC, Mr. Varmu A. Reeves, Senior Customer Service Manager, expressed gratitude to the Commission and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of both institutions.
“Our teams and your teams worked diligently to make this amendment possible,” Reeves said. He also conveyed greetings from LEC Managing Director, Hon. Mohammed Sheriff, who was unable to attend.
Reeves emphasized that the expansion supports LEC’s five-year strategic plan launched in April 2025, which prioritizes customer-centric service delivery.
“This extension empowers us to serve customers better,” he noted. “Electricity consistently emerges as a major barrier to development, and we remain committed to providing reliable and affordable power to Liberia while ensuring operational sustainability.”
Commissioner Atty. Kla-Edward Toomey, II welcomed the expansion but urged LEC to improve operational efficiency and customer responsiveness.
“Your operational plans align with the national agenda to make electricity affordable and accessible for our people,” Toomey said.
“But we hope this growth will be sustainable and reflected in improved efficiency.”He raised concerns about delays in responding to customer service issues, noting reports that it takes up to two to three weeks for the lone technician in some areas to address complaints.
“In the midst of these challenges, you are expanding,” he cautioned. “This naturally raises reservations for us on the Board. We want to challenge you to address customer concerns more effectively. Your license comes with obligations and terms and conditions, and we trust you will meet them.”
The issuance of the amended Distribution License underscores LERC’s mandate to regulate, promote, and oversee the development of a reliable and efficient electricity sector for Liberia.
