Decision to halt electricity export to neighbouring countries apt – IPGG to President

The Independent Power Generators Ghana (IPGG) has applauded government’s decision to stop the export of power to Togo, Burkina Faso and Benin.

The group in a press statement signed by its CEO Elikplim Apetorgbor said the action would go a long way in providing some respite and stability to the domestic market by increasing supply even though it may not solve the power supply challenges entirely.

“We are gladdened that the President is reported by the Chairman of Parliament’s Committee on Energy Samuel Atta Akyea, who doubles as the MP for Abuakwa South as having ordered the Volta River Authority to suspend the electricity export to our neighbor”, the statement said.

Mr. Apetorgbor explained that it is important and appropriate to commend the president for prioritizing the domestic market which is the right thing to do at the critical moment.

“As we commend the president for the intervention, we equally commend the media, parliament and the public for taking keen interest in the issue”.

Background

The Chairman of the Energy Committee of Parliament, Samuel Atta Akyea, revealed that President Akufo-Addo has issued a directive to curtail the export of electricity to neighbouring countries in response to the ongoing intermittent power outages popularly known as ‘dumsor’.

Mr Atta Akyea said the directive exhibits the President’s prioritisation of domestic energy requirements over potential profits from exporting electricity.

He underscored the President’s commitment to addressing the prevailing instability in the country’s power supply.

“The President has a sense of the national need rather than making profits abroad,” he stated.

Mr Atta Akyea, stressed the need for redirecting electricity generated for export back into the national grid to alleviate the ongoing power crisis.

Per Mr Atta Akyea’s disclosure, the directive is expected to be implemented swiftly, with immediate measures to reroute electricity generated for export back into the national grid.

“We cannot afford to say “Okay, let’s make good money abroad and let the national economy suffer.” So in the meantime, whatever is going outside would be curtailed and fed on the national grid so that we have electricity,” he said.