Liberia Tariff Reduction: 12% Reduction in Electricity Tariffs for Bong and Nimba Counties.
The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) has announced a 12% reduction in electricity tariffs for the Bong and Nimba counties grid, operated by Jungle Energy Power (JEP).
Monrovia, January 6, 2024 — The new tariffs, effective January 31, 2025, were revealed by Claude J. Katta, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, during a ceremony held in Gompa City, Nimba County, on December 30, 2024.
The revised tariff structure has lowered the energy charge from US$0.25 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to US$0.22 per kWh, offering considerable relief to electricity consumers in both counties. Additionally, a monthly fixed charge of US$1.25 has been introduced to fund network improvements and enhance service quality. To ensure transparency and accountability, the LERC is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JEP, outlining the intended use of the fixed charge to benefit consumers.
JEP has also lowered its connection charge from US$100 to US$40 for new customers seeking to connect to the grid. This adjustment aims to make electricity more accessible by covering material costs, with the remaining expenses recouped through the updated energy tariff.
Chairman Katta highlighted that the decision followed a thorough technical analysis, adhering to the 2015 Electricity Law of Liberia, which empowers the LERC to regulate and set tariffs. He affirmed that the new tariffs strike a balance between allowing JEP to recover operational costs, incentivizing system improvements, and ensuring affordability for consumers.
The updated tariffs will be in effect from January 31, 2025, to January 30, 2028, replacing the provisional tariffs implemented in Nimba County in 2021 and Bong County in 2023. Tomah Seh Floyd, CEO of Jungle Group of Companies, JEP’s parent company, welcomed the decision and confirmed the company’s compliance. He acknowledged the sector’s challenges, including revenue consistency and limited local electricity generation, and expressed plans to explore independent electricity production to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
“Serving our people remains our greatest achievement,” Floyd stated, emphasizing JEP’s commitment to improving services.
Nimba County Superintendent Madama Meapeh Kou Gono praised the tariff reduction, noting its potential to boost economic productivity while allowing consumers to save money. She commended JEP for its contributions to the county’s development and urged stakeholders to address concerns over potential electricity scarcity.
The announcement was met with approval from local government officials, civil society organizations, and community representatives. LERC’s initiative aims to provide affordable, efficient, and sustainable electricity services while supporting the long-term viability of Liberia’s electricity sector.
Additionally, the LERC has directed JEP to submit a comprehensive report on the collection of legacy debts incurred by customers before the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) transferred operations in Bong and Nimba to JEP. The report, due by January 15, 2025, must detail amounts collected, remitted to the LEC, and outstanding balances. Non-compliance could lead to regulatory actions, including penalties or further investigations.
This tariff reduction marks a significant step toward improving the financial sustainability of JEP and expanding electricity access for households and businesses in Bong and Nimba counties.
