On Friday, December 15, 2023, the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), along with the contractor, energized its newly constructed substations at Schefflin and the RIA corridor. The initial plan was to energize the substations and observe their performance for a short period before commencing customer connections in the first week of January 2024. The Schefflin substation has been energized following a 48-hour testing period, and a similar testing process was being carried out at the RIA substation.
Unfortunately, this plan was disrupted around 11am today (December 20) when a fire broke out, engulfing the newly constructed substation at RIA and damaging essential equipment. The full extent of the damage caused by the fire is not known at the moment, but it is evident that LEC cannot initiate customer connections in the affected areas as originally planned. Once the assessment is complete, LEC will inform all relevant stakeholders of the complete extent of the damage.
It's crucial to note that this fire incident does not impact the ongoing extensive meter installations in the Duazon, R2, Schefflin, Marshall, etc., areas. LEC remains committed to providing reliable and affordable electricity to the people of Liberia.
We express our gratitude to all those who helped contain the fire today, particularly the Liberia Airport Authority Fire Department that came to the rescue. We appreciate your assistance.
Sign:
The Management (LEC)