Power Supply Issues: Gas Challenge from Nigeria
Accra, Thursday, 13th June, 2024
The Ghana Grid Company LTD. (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) wish to inform the general public about a recent development affecting the nation's power supply. Since Wednesday, 12th June 2024, a significant reduction in gas supply from Nigeria has led to power interruptions across various regions in Ghana. This situation stems from maintenance works being conducted by a gas supplier in Nigeria, as communicated by the West Africa Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo).
WAPCo has clarified that these maintenance activities, which are essential for ensuring the long-term reliability of gas supplies, will span approximately three weeks. During this period, Ghana’s power generation capacity has been notably reduced, necessitating strategic load management to mitigate the impact on consumers.
Impact and Measures
The reduction in gas supply has directly affected the operations of power plants that rely heavily on natural gas, resulting in a decrease in overall electricity generation. Consequently, several areas have already experienced power outages, and more may follow as the maintenance work progresses.
Despite this challenge, GRIDCo and ECG are actively collaborating with other key stakeholders within the power value chain to optimize available resources. Efforts are being made to manage the load efficiently, with the aim of minimizing the inconvenience to consumers.
Assurance to the Public
GRIDCo and ECG understand the critical role that consistent power supply plays in the daily lives of Ghanaians and the economy at large. As such, every possible measure is being implemented to alleviate the effects of the gas supply reduction. The companies are committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the public, providing updates as the situation evolves.
To this end, consumers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and exercise patience as the necessary maintenance work is completed. The goal is to ensure that once the gas supply from Nigeria resumes its regular flow, the power supply in Ghana can be promptly normalized.
Apology for Inconveniences
GRIDCo and ECG sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by these power supply interruptions. The companies acknowledge the challenges that power outages bring to households, businesses, and essential services, and are working tirelessly to restore stability.
Looking Forward
The current situation underscores the importance of a diversified energy mix and the need for continuous investment in alternative energy sources. While natural gas remains a vital component of Ghana’s energy landscape, this incident highlights the vulnerabilities associated with over-reliance on a single source.
In the long term, GRIDCo and ECG are committed to exploring and integrating more sustainable and reliable energy solutions. Efforts are being made to enhance the resilience of the power infrastructure and reduce the impact of such disruptions in the future. Investments in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are being prioritized to complement traditional energy sources.
As the maintenance work in Nigeria progresses, GRIDCo and ECG will continue to update the public on the status of the gas supply and its impact on power generation in Ghana. Consumers are urged to remain patient and supportive during this period of adjustment.
The collaboration among various stakeholders in the energy sector is crucial in navigating this challenge and ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for all Ghanaians. GRIDCo and ECG are dedicated to serving the public's energy needs and will persist in their efforts to optimize resources and enhance the resilience of Ghana's power infrastructure.
For further information, updates, and inquiries, the public is advised to follow official communications from GRIDCo and ECG.
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Jointly Issued By:
GRIDCo and ECG
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