Liberia and HYDRONEO Sign MOU to Develop 20MW Hydropower Plant In Nimba County

By: Keith Morrison I Contributing Writer

Brussels, Belgium – February 25, 2026 – The Government of the Republic of Liberia, through its Ministry of Mines and Energy, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HYDRONEO, a France-based independent power producer specializing in small- to medium-scale hydropower development across West and Central Africa.

The agreement was signed during the Liberia–EU Business Forum in Brussels, in the presence of His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay, Sr., Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Liberia near Paris, France, who witnessed the historic occasion.

Under the agreement, HYDRONEO will support the development, financing, construction, and operation of a 20-megawatt hydroelectric power plant in Nimba County, Liberia, at an estimated investment of US$55.8–60 million. The project represents a transformative step toward strengthening Liberia’s national power grid and expanding access to reliable, clean energy.

The initiative is expected to significantly:

 • Increase Liberia’s energy generation capacity

 • Promote sustainable economic growth

 • Create over 1,000 jobs during construction

 • Improve electricity access for communities and businesses

 • Strengthen long-term energy security

A HYDRONEO technical delegation is expected to arrive in Liberia within six weeks to commence concrete engagements and initiate detailed feasibility and on-site studies.

Strategic Engagement Laid Groundwork In Paris, France

The Brussels signing builds on high-level strategic discussions held on October 9, 2025, at the Embassy of Liberia in Paris, France.

The meeting brought together Hon. Kou Meapeh Gono, Superintendent of Nimba County, and Mr. Samuel Zekri, Chief Executive Officer of HYDRONEO. The discussions were facilitated by Ambassador Yorlay and focused on the proposed construction and operationalization of the hydroelectric facility in Kokula, Yekepa, Nimba County.

Following technical consultations involving the Ministry of Mines and Energy, the Liberia Electricity Corporation, and HYDRONEO, the Kokula site was identified for feasibility assessments. Once finalized, the plant is projected to generate approximately 20 megawatts of electricity, substantially improving reliable power access throughout Nimba County and surrounding areas.

Mr. Zekri emphasized that the project marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s energy advancement. The three-year construction phase is projected to generate more than 1,000 employment opportunities for Liberian citizens, including engineers, technicians, masons, ironworkers, and other skilled professionals.

Leaders Welcome Transformative Investment

Superintendent Gono expressed profound appreciation for HYDRONEO’s decision to invest in Nimba County.

“We are grateful for HYDRONEO’s selection of a site in Nimba County. This project symbolizes hope and progress for our people. The County Administration pledges its full support to ensure the successful implementation of this vital energy initiative.”

She underscored that expanded access to electricity remains one of Liberia’s most pressing development priorities and noted that the initiative aligns with Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development by stimulating job creation and local economic transformation.

The Superintendent also commended Ambassador Yorlay and his diplomatic team for their proactive engagement in attracting critical foreign investment to Liberia.

Ambassador Yorlay reaffirmed the Embassy’s unwavering commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that advance Liberia’s sustainable development goals and strengthen cooperation between Liberia and France in energy and infrastructure development.

“This agreement reflects Liberia’s readiness for responsible investment and sustainable growth. The Embassy remains fully committed to supporting this partnership through to successful implementation.”

About HYDRONEO

HYDRONEO is a France-based independent power producer and developer specializing in small- to medium-scale hydropower projects across West and Central Africa. The company designs, finances, builds, and operates sustainable hydroelectric facilities, working closely with governments and communities to strengthen national electricity systems while prioritizing environmental responsibility and local capacity building.