NEWS

Ghana’s Energy Crisis: Three Power Plants Threaten Shutdown Over $259 Million Debt

Three Power Plants Threaten Shutdown Over $259 Million Debt

Ghana’s energy sector faces a potential crisis as three key power plants risk shutting down due to unpaid debts. Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, CEO of the Independent Power Producers (IPP), disclosed that the government owes the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) a staggering $259 million.

This default threatens to disrupt the nation’s energy supply if urgent measures are not implemented.

The warning comes just days after President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo commissioned the Bridge Power Project, aimed at addressing Ghana’s power challenges. Despite this development, Dr. Apetorgbor expressed concerns about the government’s failure to meet financial obligations, urging immediate action to avert further setbacks. In an interview with Citi Business News on November 19, Dr. Apetorgbor stressed the severity of the situation, stating, “I can confirm that all is not well. If there is no intervention before Friday, three key power plants will be off the grid by Monday. It is a serious matter, it is not fun.”

The IPP CEO also criticized the frequent but unfulfilled assurances from authorities, highlighting their determination to hold the government accountable. He further questioned claims that the newly commissioned Bridge Power Project would permanently resolve Ghana’s power outages, commonly referred to as “dumsor.” He remarked, “To say that the commissioning of this plant is going to put dumsor to rest, I find it difficult to relate.”

The potential shutdown of these power plants underscores the urgent need for government intervention to address Ghana’s mounting energy sector debt and ensure a stable power supply for its citizens.