'You’re not powering an 8-Hour economy, but promising 24 Hours?' - Prof Bokpin on energy sector failures

Economist Professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin doubts the NDC's 24-hour economy proposal. He calls it unrealistic due to ongoing energy challenges.

On Joy News’ Newsfile, he expressed concerns about Ghana's energy reliability. He noted that the country struggles to maintain an 8-hour energy cycle. Yet, politicians are promising a 24-hour system.

Bokpin described Ghana’s energy sector as a major threat to economic stability. He said irresponsible mining and illegal activities also contribute to his worries.

He pointed out that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) faces distribution losses of around 40%. This figure is nearly three times the world average. “That is not sustainable,” he emphasized.

He explained that such losses cannot be passed on to consumers. “It doesn’t make sense economically or socially,” he added.

Bokpin also mentioned collection losses close to 15%, which are above the world average. He called these figures “not sustainable.”

He criticized power sector management, noting key state agencies do not pay for electricity. “Ministries, departments, and agencies must take responsibility for their energy consumption,” he stated.

He referenced public claims about unusual electricity use patterns in the country. Some people suggested ice blocks for pure water sellers might come from police stations.

Bokpin warned that unpaid bills combined with technical and collection losses threaten future progress. Despite this, politicians continue making promises.

“Here you have a government talking about a 24-hour economy while we struggle with an 8-hour one,” he remarked.

He believes ECG operations need reform and private sector involvement in distribution. “Government can still be the sole shareholder,” he clarified.

Inviting private participation could bring capital and efficiency into power distribution and collection, he argued.

Bokpin noted that reforms are part of Ghana’s IMF-supported program with clear indicators for government action. The Cabinet is expected to decide on ECG’s future soon.

He urged open communication from the government regarding these issues. “The Government must communicate this clearly to Ghanaians,” he insisted.

In conclusion, Bokpin stated slogans like "24-hour economy" are political theatre unless root problems are addressed.