MONROVIA – The Interim Managing Director of the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), Mr. Thomas Z. Gonzerwon, has introduced a comprehensive strategy to reduce power outages and enhance electricity supply reliability during Liberia’s challenging dry season.

Mr. Gonzerwon, a seasoned engineer, was appointed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on November 29, 2024, to lead the LEC’s Interim Management Team following the expiration of the contract of the former CEO, Mr. Monie Captan.

At a January 10, 2025, press briefing held at LEC’s headquarters in Monrovia, Mr. Gonzerwon emphasized a renewed focus on customer satisfaction and power reliability. Key aspects of his administration’s strategy include ensuring that no community experiences power outages lasting longer than eight hours and improving communication to build customer trust.

“We aim to strengthen our 24-hour customer service capabilities to promptly address technical issues and respond to inquiries,” Mr. Gonzerwon assured during the briefing.

Dry Season Preparedness Plan

In addressing the challenges posed by the dry season, Mr. Gonzerwon pointed to reduced water levels at the Mount Coffee Hydropower Plant, which significantly affects local energy production. He disclosed that while three of the plant’s four turbines are operational, the fourth turbine remains offline due to a stator unit malfunction caused by insulation failure.

To supplement local energy generation, Mr. Gonzerwon announced the successful negotiation of a new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Ivorian counterparts, securing a supply of 50MW. Additionally, he revealed plans to procure another 20MW of extra energy to bolster supply during this critical period.

“We want to emphasize that during the implementation of this agreement, there may be instances where load adjustments or changes are necessary due to unforeseen technical challenges in energy generation beyond LEC’s control,” Mr. Gonzerwon cautioned.

Revenue Protection and Anti-Power Theft Initiatives

In an effort to improve revenue collection and combat power theft, Mr. Gonzerwon outlined a plan for a comprehensive review of Anti-Power Theft (APT) operations. This includes identifying operational gaps, realigning processes, and institutionalizing the APT Task Force to ensure its long-term effectiveness.

“This review will adopt an end-to-end approach, decentralizing task force operations by strategically positioning teams at each FBBU Unit under the oversight of the APT head,” he explained.

Mr. Gonzerwon also announced a meter framework contract for the supply of over 300,000 meters, with the first deliveries of single-phase and three-phase meters already received. These meters will be deployed strategically to reduce unauthorized grid connections.

Additionally, the Prepaid Service Transition Program for public institutions and comprehensive audits of large customer connections will be introduced to further mitigate electricity theft.

Building Transparency and Trust

To improve transparency, the Interim Managing Director highlighted plans for better communication regarding load management schedules and timely updates to customers during technical interruptions. “We are committed to keeping our customers informed and addressing their concerns effectively,” Mr. Gonzerwon said.

Looking Ahead

The newly unveiled strategies represent a critical step toward improving Liberia’s energy sector, ensuring reliable electricity supply, and fostering customer trust. Mr. Gonzerwon’s administration has also committed to long-term solutions to address systemic challenges within LEC, including infrastructure upgrades, energy theft prevention, and streamlined operations.

The plan sets a forward-looking agenda, with stakeholders optimistic about its potential to alleviate Liberia’s perennial power challenges, especially during the dry season.