By Moses J. Dawoe
The General Manager of LIBENERGY is reporting a significant increase in power theft in Maryland County.
Mr. Henry Hodge who manages LIBENERGY in River Gee and Maryland Counties, informed the media that certain areas within their operational jurisdiction, particularly Pleebo and Harper cities, are plagued by power theft.
During an interview at the headquarters of LIBENERGY on January 10, 2024, Mr. Hodge highlighted the alarming level of theft experienced by the service provider.
He attributed this to customers who refuse to pay their bills or maintenance fees, thus hindering the company’s ability to provide uninterrupted service and settle debts with the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC).
This situation, he said, has also the propensity to affect LIBENERGY’s financial obligations to its counterpart.
Meanwhile, Mr. Hodge stated that the issue of power theft has been reported to the relevant government authorities for action.
The General Manager used the occasion to call on all customers to desist from such acts, which he described as a felony under Liberian law.
He mentioned that several cases are still under investigation, and appropriate actions will be taken.
Mr. Hodge further explained that LIBENERGY is currently operating at a slow pace due to the replacement of substandard cables, poles, and the installation of new transmission and distribution lines to enhance the entity’s services.
According to the General Manager, some citizens are refusing to allow LIBENERGY staff to map meters on their houses, despite assurances that the process poses no threats.
He also revealed that certain power users are bypassing meters, while others are reconnecting electricity without authorization from LIBENERGY staff.
Mr. Hodge noted that the ongoing installation of meters will give customers a clearer understanding of their electricity consumption.
He also revealed that some residents of Maryland County have used electricity for four years without paying their bills.
He emphasized that the installation of meters is in progress as the deadline set by the government through the Liberia Electricity Corporation approaches.
Mr. Hodge urged the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) to review the electricity rates and the charges per kilowatt-hour.
Mr. Hodge stated that while LIBENERGY has plans to extend services to new communities, the high prevalence of power theft may hinder efforts to supply electricity to other areas.
