Ghana selects US, China as vendors for first nuclear plants

Ghana has chosen the United States and China for its first nuclear power plants. However, no formal contracts have been signed yet.

NuScale Power and Regnum Technology Group from the U.S. will build Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). They are partnering with Japanese firms for this project. Meanwhile, China National Nuclear Corporation will construct a Large Reactor (LR).

Dr. Stephen Yamoah, Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana, shared this information with the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Wednesday. The LR will have a capacity of 1,200 megawatts. The SMRs will consist of 12 modules, each generating 77 megawatts, totaling 924 megawatts.

Dr. Yamoah explained that the LR would use a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) financial model with local equity participation. The SMRs will be financed through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

Ghana has signed a framework agreement with the vendors. Experts are currently gathering environmental and oceanic data to find suitable locations for the plants.

Mr. Archibold Buah-Kwofi is the Acting Director of the Nuclear Power Institute. He emphasized the need for stable and affordable electricity for national development. Currently, Ghana's energy mix relies heavily on fossil fuels and hydro sources, with renewables contributing only one percent.

He stated that fast-tracking nuclear power adoption is essential for securing Ghana's energy future. He also highlighted the importance of strong regulatory frameworks and skilled manpower.

Nuclear power aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change while enhancing energy security. The government plans to add one gigawatt of nuclear power to the grid by 2034.

This plant will support industrialization and compensate for declining hydro sources. It is expected to lower tariffs for industries, enable desalination, and create jobs.

The vendor selection process was thorough; it began with 16 responses to the government's call for proposals. A technical team guided by the Energy Ministry shortlisted five candidates before selecting the final two.

Ghana’s nuclear ambitions date back to a coup in the 1960s but were revived in 2006 with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Several African nations are pursuing nuclear energy to address power challenges and promote economic growth.