In a significant development, the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) has successfully initiated the energization of the Schieflin and RIA corridor. The commencement of this operation began today and is set to continue tomorrow, encompassing a crucial 48-hour testing phase. The corridor, extending from Paynesville to RIA, is anticipated to light up over 10,000 homes.
Addressing the ceremony held at the Schieflin substation, Mr. Henry Kimber, the project manager for LEC, outlined the energization process. He explained that the initial phase involves a 48-hour testing without loading, aimed at observing the accuracy of the free flow of energy through the transmission line. Following this testing phase, the connection process for customers along the corridor will commence.
He explained that the project is valued at 40 million in multi-donor support from five sources, including AFDB, EU, GEF, among others. This funding embraces various aspects, such as capacity building and electricity distribution, spanning from Rivergee to Pleebo and now extending to the Schieflin to RIA corridor.
The contractor team lead, Alagumuthu S. Kumar of the National Contracting Company, Ltd, Africa Region also spoke at the event, expressing praise for LEC management, the government of Liberia, and highlighting the positive working relationship between the parties involved.
The energization exercise is scheduled to continue tomorrow, the 15th of December, at the RIA substation in Margibi County. Mrs. Millie Williams, the Senior Community Engagement Manager, LEC provided important information during the ceremony. She announced that as of the 18th of November, metering will commence, and customers are responsible for wiring their homes with quality wires, not provided by LEC.
Mrs. Williams emphasized the significance of avoiding power theft to prevent overloading and damage to transformers, which could pose challenges for both LEC and the community. She assured the community that the connection and metering process are entirely free. Furthermore, she urged community dwellers caution against potential impersonators who often infiltrate communities to extort money from customers.
Mrs. Williams closed by commending the Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Monie R. Captan for his unwavering support, passion, and institutional leadership, and acknowledged the collective and remarkable achievements thus far.