"Dumsor" looms as fuel reserves drop to just 2.6 days

Energy Minister John Jinapor has raised concerns about the power crisis. He revealed that only 2.6 days of fuel remain for electricity generation.

During a meeting with Parliament’s Energy Committee, he warned of severe power disruptions. The country needs GH₵1.1 billion urgently to buy liquid fuel.

“We only have fuel to last 2.6 days,” Mr. Jinapor said. “The situation is dire.” Some fuel has been purchased on credit, and they are working with the Finance Ministry to clear these debts.

Without quick financial help, power plants may stop operating. This could leave homes and businesses without electricity.

To ease pressure on the national grid, the government is considering private partners for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). This aims to improve efficiency and increase revenue.

Mr. Jinapor also noted that many public institutions are not paying their electricity bills. For instance, Ghana Water Limited has not paid its power charges for seven months.

This non-payment adds strain to the energy sector. In response, all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must include electricity bills in their budgets.

Only critical services like hospitals will be exempted from this rule. School dormitories and dining halls will still need to pay their bills.

“We must all take responsibility,” Mr. Jinapor emphasized. “Every institution must do its part to avoid future blackouts.”