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The debate over Liberia’s electricity future intensified this week as the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) shifted the spotlight from technical numbers to public sentiment during a major hearing on the Liberia Electricity Corporation’s proposed 2026–2028 tariff adjustments.
Instead of simply reviewing fees, the Commission used the forum to amplify citizens’ voices and highlight growing concerns about affordability, access, and trust in the power sector. LEC’s proposal seeks to increase new-connection charges, from 20 to 82 US dollars for single-phase service and from 350 to 401 US dollars for three-phase service sparking questions about how such hikes align with the nation’s development goals.
Stakeholders from across the energy landscape, including community representatives, private operators, and consumer advocates, challenged the sustainability and timing of the increases. For many, the core issue was not just the cost, but whether improved services would follow.
Throughout the hearing, LERC repeatedly emphasized that Liberia’s energy challenges require collective responsibility and transparent dialogue. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public interest while supporting the national grid, LEC, and private operators to work toward shared targets.
LERC also restated Liberia’s ambitious aim of increasing electricity access from 32 percent to 75 percent by 2030 and noted that every tariff decision will be guided by evidence, national priorities, and inclusive development under the ARREST Agenda.
Assuring the public of improved service, especially through the dry season the Commission vowed to thoroughly analyze all submissions from the hearing before taking any final action.
