Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor has assured Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II that the power supply in Kumasi will improve. He made this statement during a courtesy call at Manhyia Palace as part of his working visit to the Ashanti Region.
Jinapor highlighted ongoing efforts, including the installation of a new 145MVA transformer, replacing the previous 66MVA unit. He emphasized that the upgrade would significantly boost power distribution in Kumasi and beyond.
“Electricity demand has been rising, and existing infrastructure could not keep up. This new transformer will enhance power delivery,” he said.
Addressing recent power rationing, the energy minister noted that Ghana faced up to 750 megawatts of load shedding in December. However, he confirmed that the situation had stabilized, allowing the country to export excess electricity to neighboring nations.
However, despite improvements, he acknowledged that more work was needed to ensure a fully stable energy supply. He stressed the importance of strengthening power generation, transmission, and distribution to achieve long-term stability.
“We are working around the clock to resolve these challenges. Beyond generating power, we must ensure effective transmission and distribution,” he added.
Jinapor, the energy minister, commended the technical team for swiftly completing the transformer installation, which briefly disrupted supply. He reassured Otumfuo that the situation had been resolved and that Kumasi would receive more reliable service.
He also urged power providers to enhance communication with consumers during maintenance or emergency outages to reduce inconvenience.
Additionally, Jinapor revealed plans to transform Kumasi into a major power generation hub. Upcoming projects could contribute up to 500 megawatts of electricity, strengthening Ghana’s energy security.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to resolving energy challenges and ensuring uninterrupted supply for residential and industrial users.
In response, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II expressed gratitude to the energy minister and his team for their swift intervention in Kumasi’s power issues. He assured Jinapor of his full support in efforts to enhance power supply in the region.
As part of his visit, Jinapor inspected several key energy projects, including GRIDCo’s newly commissioned 145MVA transformer at Anwomaso, the Ameri Plant, the AKSA Plant, the Cenit Plant, and the ECG double circuit tower line from Anwomaso BSP to the Airport Junction. He was accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Energy, VRA, GRIDCo, and ECG.
