BUCHANAN – President Joseph Boakai has vowed to address the electricity crisis in Buchanan, calling it a stark contradiction for a city hosting a strategic TRANSCO CLSG substation to remain without power. Speaking during the launch of his $8.38 billion Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) plan, Boakai lamented the plight of Buchanan’s residents, pledging decisive action to resolve the nation’s energy challenges.
“We enjoy the hospitality of the Bassa people, but Buchanan doesn’t have electricity. It’s something to think about,” Boakai stated, signaling his administration’s commitment to tackling Liberia’s chronic power shortages.
A National Energy Crisis
Liberia’s electricity grid ranks among the least developed in Africa, with over 60% of the population lacking access to power. Even those connected to the grid face chronic outages, especially during the dry season, when hydropower—accounting for 70% of the nation’s energy—is hampered by insufficient rainfall.
Despite a $45 million World Bank investment that expanded electricity access to nearly 494,000 Liberians, challenges persist. High electricity costs and a lack of reliable infrastructure undermine national development. Buchanan’s struggles epitomize these issues, as residents rely on costly generators and battery-powered lights despite the presence of a strategic energy substation.
The TRANSCO CLSG substation, operational for over 18 months, was intended to connect Liberia to the West African Power Pool, promising improved energy access. However, inadequate leadership and infrastructure have left its potential unrealized.
Calls for Swift and Comprehensive Solutions
Energy expert Elkanah Al-Philips stressed the urgency of overhauling the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC). “LEC requires more than quick fixes; it needs a comprehensive strategy to deliver consistent and reliable power,” he said. Al-Philips advocated for leveraging TRANSCO infrastructure to source power from neighboring countries, a solution he believes could be implemented within three months under competent leadership.
He also emphasized aligning energy reforms with broader national goals. “A paradigm shift is essential. Integrating mining concessions and industrialization into the national grid can accelerate economic growth,” he stated, echoing recent remarks by Minister of Mines and Energy Wilmot Paye.
Electricity and Development in Buchanan
Buchanan’s lack of power is emblematic of Liberia’s broader developmental challenges. The unutilized TRANSCO CLSG substation highlights systemic failures that continue to stifle economic growth and quality of life.
During his visit, President Boakai underscored his administration’s commitment to addressing these issues. His acknowledgment of the electricity crisis, particularly in Buchanan, signals a focus on infrastructure development and energy reforms as critical priorities of the AAID plan.
Path Forward
The $8.38 billion AAID plan places energy access at the core of Liberia’s development strategy. Joined by Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Kangar Lawrence and Majority Bloc Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, President Boakai pledged to transform Liberia’s energy sector through targeted investments and leadership reforms.
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