The Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) has issued the country’s first Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installer License, marking what authorities describe as a major milestone in strengthening safety, professionalism, and quality across Liberia’s rapidly expanding solar industry. Presenting the certificate, the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Hon. Claude J. Katta, said the move represents a strategic intervention designed not only to protect consumers but also to professionalize the solar installation sector and ensure long-term sustainability.
“We’re here to perform a strategic initiative that will not only protect consumers but also professionalize the solar industry and ensure sustainable, long-term growth,” Chairman Katta stated. “As the demand for solar PV systems accelerates, so does the critical need for a standardized, high-quality installation workforce. We can meet this need through the implementation of the LERC’s regulations for solar PV installers.” Speaking on Friday, November 14, at the LERC Head Office, Chairman Katta noted that while Liberia’s solar market continues to expand and stimulate economic activity, inconsistent installation quality remains a significant challenge. He explained that the absence of uniform standards has resulted in varying levels of expertise and elevated risks, including electrical fires, underperforming systems, and a gradual erosion of public confidence.
“These risks not only threaten the safety of residents but also undermine trust in solar energy as a reliable power source,” he said. “This licensing program shifts us from a reactive model to a proactive one—establishing a standard of excellence from the start.” He further emphasized that the licensing program should be viewed as an investment in the nation’s long-term progress. “It is a commitment to safety, a dedication to quality, and a strategy for growth,” he added. Deputy Minister for Energy, Hon. Charles Umehai, also addressed the ceremony, urging the licensee to uphold the professionalism and responsibility required by the certification.
“This installer’s license should be a living license,” he remarked. “It shouldn’t be something you sit upon. When you go out there, people should know why this license was given to you. It carries a huge obligation because you have the full backing of the regulator and the Ministry of Mines and Energy. It would sadden us to hear that it has been transferred or misused.” The Executive Director of the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA), Mr. Samuel Nagbe, described the licensing launch as a critical step toward addressing capacity gaps within Liberia’s solar sector. He stressed that the lack of skilled professionals has contributed to hazardous installations, resulting in property loss and failed investments.
“One of the challenges we have is finding people with the right skills and competence,” Nagbe said. “When installation is not done by professionals, solar systems become hazardous. People lose their investments and properties, and this is a major concern to the RREA.” Nagbe emphasized that solar energy will increasingly play a central role in Liberia’s power generation future. He called for closer collaboration among sector stakeholders and congratulated the recipient of the inaugural license. Receiving the first-ever Solar PV Installer License, Mr. Mark McCauley praised LERC for establishing a transparent and efficient certification process.
“There is transparency in the system,” McCauley said. “With my years of experience setting up solar plants across Liberia, I know safety remains a challenge in the field. This license will be used for its intended purpose.” The issuance of this first license reinforces LERC’s commitment to elevating industry standards and ensuring that Liberia’s transition to renewable energy is built on quality, safety, and professional excellence.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
