LERC Begins Issuing Provisional Licenses for Electrical Contractors and Electricians

The Board of Commissioners (BoC) of the Liberia Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC) has approved the issuance of provisional licenses to electrical contractors and electricians as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen and ensure safety and compliance within Liberia’s electricity sector.

“This decision reflects the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that electrical works across the country are carried out safely, professionally, and within a regulated framework, even as we finalize the full licensing system,” said Hon. Claude J. Katta, Chairman of LERC. “The provisional licensing regime provides a practical pathway for contractors to remain compliant while we strengthen our institutional processes.”

This decision is based on the Commission’s mandate under the 2015 Electricity Law of Liberia, which establishes LERC to oversee and regulate the electricity sector and the Certification and Licensing of Electrical Professionals and Contractors Regulations (CLEPCR), 2023, which require all electrical professionals and contractors to be duly licensed prior to undertaking electrical works.

Since the regulations came into force, LERC notes that it has not yet fully operationalized all processes necessary for the issuance of standard licenses to electrical contractors. The temporary provisional licensing will ensure continuity of services while upholding regulatory oversight.

Under this arrangement, provisional licenses will be issued to all categories of electrical contractors as defined under the CLEPCR and these licenses will be valid for a period not exceeding one (1) year, ending on April 6, 2027.

In addition, all provisional licenses will be subject to the financial and operational requirements outlined in the CLEPCR and other applicable regulations among others.

The Commission emphasizes that this interim measure is critical to maintaining standards in the electrical sector while final systems and procedures for full licensing are being completed. Contractors currently operating under certification from the Ministry of Public Works Liberia are encouraged to transition into the provisional licensing framework within the stipulated period.