The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has called for a major transformation in Ghana’s energy strategy, urging a renewed focus on the Volta River Authority (VRA) as the cornerstone of the nation’s energy security and affordability.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement, Mr. Jinapor emphasised the need for Ghana to take greater control of its energy future by empowering the VRA to play a more central role in power generation and supply.
The Minister expressed concern over the country’s heavy financial commitments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), revealing that Ghana spends about US$70 million monthly on payments to IPPs.
He questioned why similar levels of investment could not be directed to the VRA, which he described as a reliable public institution capable of providing affordable and sustainable power to consumers.
Mr. Jinapor proposed that government support the VRA to procure additional thermal plants, ensuring that Ghana’s growing energy demand is met sustainably and at a lower cost.
With national power demand projected to reach 8,000 megawatts by 2040, he underscored the urgency of expanding VRA’s generation capacity to meet future needs while reducing dependence on private producers.
He also disclosed that ongoing renegotiations with IPPs have already resulted in savings of about US$300 million, a development he said demonstrates government’s commitment to protecting the national interest and restoring financial balance within the energy sector.
The Minister commended energy sector workers for their dedication and hard work, assuring them that their welfare remains a top government priority.
Mr. Jinapor expressed confidence that with collective effort, innovation, and prudent management, Ghana can achieve energy security, stabilise electricity prices, and build a sustainable power sector to drive the country’s industrial transformation agenda.
Source: Myxyzonline.com/Nana Adjoa Kwakyewaa
