The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has firmly dismissed calls for the government to publish a load-shedding timetable, stating that Ghana is not currently facing power rationing.
Addressing the media at a press conference at the Jubilee House on Friday, Jinapor reassured the public that despite challenges in the energy sector, the government has managed to maintain a stable power supply while also exporting surplus electricity to neighboring countries.
Minister Jinapor clarified that Ghana is not experiencing load shedding, contrary to claims by some Members of Parliament from the Minority Caucus and sections of the public.
“Today, let me put on record that we are not shedding load. The demand by the minority in parliament and some people that we should publish a load-shedding timetable is mute.
“When you are not shedding load, there will be no need to publish a load-sharing timetable.”
Hon. John Jinapor, Minister for Energy and Green Transition
He further emphasized that Ghana’s energy supply remains sufficient, noting that 300 megawatts of power is being exported to Burkina Faso, Benin, and other neighboring countries.
“When you have enough power and you are exporting, obviously, there will be no need to publish a load-shedding timetable.”
Hon. John Jinapor, Minister for Energy and Green Transition
While reaffirming the country’s power sufficiency, the minister acknowledged that Ghana’s energy system remains fragile due to financial and operational challenges.
One major concern has been the temporary shutdown of Bridge Power, an independent power producer, due to unpaid liabilities accumulated over several months.
However, Jinapor assured that the government had successfully negotiated with Bridge Power, leading to its resumption of operations.
Additionally, there were concerns about NGas, a key gas supplier, potentially halting gas supply in March due to outstanding payments.
The minister confirmed that negotiations had been successful, resulting in increased gas flow from NGas, which has helped sustain electricity generation.
“We have been working around the clock to procure enough fuel and to make some payments to power suppliers in order to hold the system.”
Hon. John Jinapor, Minister for Energy and Green Transition
Renewable Energy Fund and Future Plans
As part of efforts to improve Ghana’s energy security and transition towards a sustainable energy mix, Jinapor announced that Cabinet has approved the operationalization of the Renewable Energy Investment Fund.
This initiative aims to boost the adoption of renewable energy solutions, including: “Solar rooftops for businesses and households, Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, Chargeable outboard motors for fishermen, and Deployment of solar-powered streetlights.”
Jinapor emphasized that these interventions will help reduce peak electricity demand, leading to significant cost savings for the country while ensuring a more resilient energy sector.
“What we need to do is mobilize additional resources in order to procure more fuels and keep the power sector running.
“The deployment of solar street lights will help suppress peak demand, allowing us to make huge savings while continuing to produce power.”
Hon. John Jinapor, Minister for Energy and Green Transition
The minister’s press conference comes amid growing public anxiety over recent power outages in parts of the country.
While some Ghanaians and industry stakeholders argue that unannounced load shedding is occurring, Hon. Jinapor maintains that these power interruptions are due to temporary technical faults rather than deliberate load management.
The energy sector’s financial difficulties, including debts owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and gas suppliers, remain a critical issue.
However, Hon. Jinapor expressed confidence that with ongoing negotiations and strategic financial mobilization, Ghana will sustain reliable power supply while transitioning towards a greener energy future.
While Ghana continues to grapple with energy sector challenges, the government insists that no formal load shedding schedule is necessary. Minister Jinapor’s assurance that Ghana is exporting power and stabilizing gas supply offers a sense of optimism.
However, addressing long-term financial sustainability and investing in renewable energy solutions will be key in ensuring the country’s energy security and resilience in the coming years.
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