Liberia, Hydroneo Seal Nimba Power Deal-20MW Plant Promises Jobs, Growth, Officials Say

MONROVIA – Liberia’s signing of a hydropower Memorandum of Understanding with French developer HYDRONEO marks a significant step toward expanding electricity access and strengthening the national energy grid. With an estimated investment of up to US$60 million, the proposed 20-megawatt plant in Nimba County could create jobs, improve reliability, and advance clean energy development. The agreement also reflects Liberia’s broader push to attract foreign investment through economic diplomacy, including the Liberia–EU Business Forum in Brussels. As energy shortages remain a major obstacle to industrial growth and rural development, projects like this highlight the importance of infrastructure partnerships in driving economic transformation. THE ANALYST reports.

The Government of the Republic of Liberia, through its Ministry of Mines and Energy, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding with HYDRONEO, a France-based independent power producer specializing in small- to medium-scale hydropower development across West and Central Africa.

The agreement was signed during the Liberia–EU Business Forum in Brussels, Belgium, in the presence of His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay, Sr., Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Liberia near Paris, France, who witnessed what officials described as a historic occasion.

Under the agreement, HYDRONEO will support the development, financing, construction, and operation of a 20-megawatt hydroelectric power plant in Nimba County, Liberia, at an estimated investment of US$55.8–60 million.

Officials say the project represents a transformative step toward strengthening Liberia’s national power grid and expanding access to reliable, clean energy.

Expected Benefits of The Project

The initiative is expected to significantly increase Liberia’s energy generation capacity, promote sustainable economic growth, create over 1,000 jobs during construction, improve electricity access for communities and businesses, and strengthen long-term energy security.

A HYDRONEO technical delegation is expected to arrive in Liberia within six weeks to begin feasibility studies and on-site technical assessments.

Energy experts say increased hydropower capacity could reduce Liberia’s dependence on costly fuel imports and improve electricity reliability for homes, schools, hospitals, and industries.

Strategic Talks in Paris Laid Foundation

The Brussels signing builds on earlier strategic discussions held October 9, 2025, at the Embassy of Liberia in Paris, France.

The meeting brought together Hon. Kou Meapeh Gono, Superintendent of Nimba County, and Mr. Samuel Zekri, Chief Executive Officer of HYDRONEO, facilitated by Ambassador Yorlay.

The discussions focused on the proposed construction and operation of the hydroelectric facility in Kokula, Yekepa, Nimba County.

Following consultations involving the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the Liberia Electricity Corporation, and HYDRONEO engineers, the Kokula site was identified for feasibility assessments.

Once completed, the plant is projected to generate approximately 20 megawatts of electricity, improving power access in Nimba County and surrounding regions.

Local Leaders Praise Project

Mr. Zekri emphasized that the project marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s energy development and will generate employment opportunities during its three-year construction phase.

More than 1,000 Liberian citizens are expected to benefit through jobs for engineers, technicians, masons, ironworkers, and other skilled workers.

Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono expressed appreciation for HYDRONEO’s decision to invest in the county.

“We are grateful for HYDRONEO’s selection of a site in Nimba County. This project symbolizes hope and progress for our people. The County Administration pledges its full support to ensure successful implementation,” she said.

She added that expanded access to electricity remains one of Liberia’s most urgent development priorities and aligns with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

Superintendent Gono also commended Ambassador Yorlay and his diplomatic team for attracting foreign investment to Liberia.

Ambassador Yorlay Reaffirms Support

Ambassador Yorlay reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to strategic partnerships that advance sustainable development.

“This agreement reflects Liberia’s readiness for responsible investment and sustainable growth. The Embassy remains fully committed to supporting this partnership through successful implementation,” he said.

Officials say the project also strengthens Liberia–France cooperation in energy and infrastructure development.

ABOUT HYDRONEO

HYDRONEO is a France-based independent power producer specializing in small- to medium-scale hydropower projects across West and Central Africa.

The company designs, finances, builds, and operates sustainable hydroelectric facilities, working closely with governments and communities to strengthen national electricity systems while prioritizing environmental responsibility and local capacity building.

Why This Matters

Liberia continues to face major electricity shortages that limit industrial growth, job creation, and social services.

Experts say expanding hydropower capacity could lower energy costs, support businesses, and improve quality of life for rural communities.

The agreement signals Liberia’s effort to attract investment through international partnerships while strengthening infrastructure essential for national development.