Ghana to Endure Three Weeks of Power Cuts, Supply Shortages

Power cuts in parts of Ghana are expected to last at least three more weeks due to a shortage of supplies from Nigeria. The state power firm cited a temporary shutdown for maintenance at an unnamed Nigerian gas supplier as the cause.

Ghanaians have endured years of regular power shortages, known locally as “dumsor,” meaning “on and off” in the Akan language. Power demand has steadily increased over the past two decades, driven by rapid urbanization and population growth.

To address the shortfall, Ghana’s government needs approximately $400 million to buy gas and liquid fuel for power plants. The state power company, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), owes about $1.2 billion to private energy producers, including Nigerian suppliers. This growing debt has contributed to the power shortages that began early this year.

Last July, private suppliers threatened to shut down operations due to arrears. The situation has also affected neighboring countries like Togo and Benin, which are experiencing gas shortages.

Public anger has been growing in recent days. In response, the ECG and the Ghana Grid Company issued a joint statement, assuring the public that they are collaborating with other stakeholders to minimize the impact of the gas supply reduction. To spread the available supplies efficiently, the companies will carry out load-shedding, a measure previously disputed between the two entities.

The companies have pledged to manage the disruptions effectively, ensuring essential services remain uninterrupted throughout the period of reduced gas supply. This development comes just two months after President Nana Akufo-Addo curtailed electricity exports to Togo, Burkina Faso, and Benin due to supply challenges.

In recent years, power shortages have worsened as Ghana grapples with its worst economic crisis in a decade. The country, one of the world’s largest producers of gold and cocoa, has become heavily reliant on gas for electricity generation.

Ghana’s electricity comes from hydro and thermal sources, but these are often poorly maintained. The current power cuts underscore the country’s ongoing struggle to provide stable electricity amid financial and infrastructural challenges.

The West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) noted that the current situation is beyond its control. WAPCo’s statement highlighted the broader regional impact, with gas shortages also affecting Togo and Benin.

The Ghanaian government is under pressure to find a sustainable solution to the recurring power issues. Public frustration is mounting, and there are calls for more effective management of the country’s energy resources.

Kwame Asante, a resident of Accra, expressed his frustration: “We’ve dealt with dumsor for years. It’s time for the government to find a lasting solution. We can’t continue living like this.”

Meanwhile, the ECG and Ghana Grid Company are working to finalize a load-shedding schedule to inform consumers about the planned power outages. This measure aims to help residents and businesses plan their activities around the power cuts.

The ongoing power cuts have significant implications for Ghana’s economy and social stability. Businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, are struggling to cope with the disruptions. Many rely on electricity for their daily operations, and the intermittent power supply affects productivity and revenue.

The health sector is also impacted, with hospitals and clinics needing a reliable power supply to provide essential services. The government and energy companies must prioritize these critical areas to mitigate the effects of the power cuts.

As Ghana navigates this challenging period, the government’s ability to manage the crisis and implement long-term solutions will be crucial. Ensuring a stable and reliable power supply is essential for the country’s economic growth and social well-being.

The situation highlights the need for investment in Ghana’s energy infrastructure and better financial management of its energy resources. By addressing these fundamental issues, the government can work towards providing a more stable and prosperous future for all Ghanaians.

Source: Ghana Web