Atta Akyea, Chairman of the Energy Committee of Parliament, revealed that President Akufo-Addo has instructed the Volta River Authority to reduce electricity exports to neighboring countries due to intermittent power outages, known as ‘dumsor’.
He emphasized the President’s prioritization of national needs over foreign profits. Recent irregular electricity supply has caused disruptions and inconveniences for Ghanaians across various sectors.
The President’s directive aligns with calls from Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, CEO of the Independent Power Generators, Ghana (IPGG), urging the VRA to focus on meeting domestic demands amidst the current power crisis.
The IPGG emphasized that Ghana is facing a power crisis, urging the VRA to reduce hydro-generated electricity exports to neighboring countries with lower power tariffs.
Mr. Apetorgbor emphasized the need for the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority to avoid imposing high electricity tariffs on Ghanaians, particularly during times of unstable power supply.
“Dumsor,” Ghana’s term for frequent power outages, disrupts daily life and hinders economic growth. Businesses, reliant on consistent electricity, face operational challenges, while households resort to costly alternatives like generators. Inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, and irregular fuel supply exacerbate the crisis. Governments have invested in new power plants and renewable energy sources, yet dumsor persists due to underlying issues. Sustainable solutions are crucial, including addressing infrastructure deficiencies, financial constraints, and fuel supply challenges. Promoting energy efficiency and diversifying the energy mix with renewables can enhance long-term energy security. Despite efforts, dumsor remains a pressing challenge, underscoring the need for effective measures to ensure reliable and affordable electricity for all Ghanaians.
Source: CitiNewsroom
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