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By LAEJNET Senior Environmental Reporter
Monrovia – The ongoing electricity rationing in Liberia has triggered a significant rise in charcoal production, as households and businesses increasingly turn to alternative fuel sources. While this shift serves as a temporary solution to power shortages, it is causing severe environmental damage, raising concerns among conservationists and policymakers.
Charcoal has long been a staple energy source in Liberia, particularly in urban areas with limited access to electricity. However, the current power crisis has escalated demand, leading to widespread deforestation and environmental degradation. Across various communities, trees are being cut down at an alarming rate, with large swathes of forestland cleared to meet the surging need for charcoal.
Environmental experts warn that this trend could have lasting consequences. Deforestation contributes to soil erosion, disrupts local ecosystems, and accelerates biodiversity loss. Additionally, the unchecked burning of trees increases carbon dioxide emissions, exacerbating climate change. With limited reforestation initiatives in place, the long-term impact of Liberia’s growing reliance on charcoal is becoming increasingly concerning.
“The rate at which trees are being felled for charcoal production is unsustainable and could have devastating effects on our natural environment. If this continues unchecked, we will face serious consequences, including desertification and worsening climate conditions,” said Steve Doito an environmental activist with Green Media Campaigners based in Monrovia.
Calls for action are growing among environmentalists, who stress the need for sustainable energy alternatives and better resource management. They urge the Liberian government to prioritize and invest more in renewable energy sources such as solar to reduce the country’s dependency on charcoal.
As the power crisis persists, the debate continues over whether the increased reliance on charcoal will lead to irreversible environmental damage or push the government toward adopting more sustainable energy policies. Policymakers and stakeholders are being urged to introduce and enforce regulations that control charcoal production while promoting cleaner, more environmentally friendly energy options. Without decisive action, Liberia risks exacerbating its environmental challenges, threatening both its natural resources and the livelihoods of future generations.
Liberia Takes Action to Address Electricity Crisis: National Energy Sector Coordination Retreat
Meanwhile, in a concerted effort to tackle Liberia’s persistent electricity challenges, Vice President Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr., has rallied Liberians to unite. His call came during the opening session of the National Energy Sector Coordination Retreat, held at Koung’s Farm from February 8 to 9, 2025.
Highlighting the urgency of translating ideas into practical solutions, Vice President Koung emphasized, “Liberia’s primary challenge lies in converting documentation into actionable plans. It is time for us to collectively resolve our electricity issues.”
The retreat has convened current and former stakeholders from the energy sector, including policymakers, technical experts, and private sector representatives. The objective was to develop a comprehensive roadmap to address Liberia’s energy challenges.
VP Koung underscored the significance of privatization and public-private partnerships in the electricity sector. He acknowledged Jungle Energy Power for its role in providing stable electricity since 2015, particularly in Nimba County, noting minimal disruptions except for external factors like fallen trees.
Addressing electricity theft, Vice President Koung pointed to challenges within the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), stressing the need for practical approaches. “We must take responsibility for our energy future,” he asserted.
The retreat aims to foster dialogue, evaluate policy options, and craft a four-year strategic energy plan aligned with the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development. Discussions will focus on transitioning Liberia to sustainable energy, tackling regulatory hurdles, attracting investments, and refining policies.
Under Executive Order No. 137, recently amended from Executive Order No. 120, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has established a high-level Steering Committee chaired by Vice President Koung. This committee will oversee the implementation of key projects like the St. Paul River 2nd Hydropower Plant (SP2) and the Solar Independent Power Producer (IPP), supported by the government to bolster renewable energy initiatives.
The National Energy Sector Coordination Retreat marks a pivotal step towards resolving Liberia’s electricity crisis, emphasizing collaborative efforts and decisive actions to achieve sustainable energy solutions for all Liberians.
