ASEC calls for urgent action to strengthen power infrastructure and address ECG’s procurement failures

The Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC) is urging the Ghanaian government to improve the power system. They want urgent action to fix electricity procurement issues.

This call follows recent power cuts caused by severe storms. There are also concerns about over 1,300 containers missing from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) at Tema Port.

ASEC warns that storms have revealed weaknesses in Ghana’s electricity grid. Aging transformers and poorly maintained power lines failed during these events. The blackouts affected businesses, homes, and hospitals.

The organization emphasizes the need for infrastructure upgrades. Without these improvements, Ghana's electricity supply will remain vulnerable to bad weather. ASEC suggests moving power lines underground or using stronger wind-resistant poles.

They also recommend modernizing transformers for peak demand and adopting smart grid technology. This technology can detect faults in real time. Additionally, ASEC advocates for more investment in renewable energy sources like solar and wind.

The loss of electrical equipment could delay important power projects. This situation may worsen Ghana’s energy problems. ASEC warns that missing ECG equipment threatens vital upgrades.

To prevent future losses, ASEC calls for an independent forensic audit. They want to find out how the containers went missing and hold those responsible accountable. Better security measures are also needed, such as GPS tracking and tamper-proof seals.

ASEC recommends forming a task force with various stakeholders to oversee shipments of electrical equipment. They stress the importance of transparency in procurement through public disclosures and independent audits.

If these issues are not resolved quickly, Ghana's energy crisis may worsen. This could hinder economic growth and disrupt daily life for many people. ASEC urges the government to act swiftly and involve the private sector in funding energy infrastructure projects for a stable future.