Government through the Energy ministry has ordered the suspension of exportation of electricity to neighbouring countries as a measure to curtail the ongoing erratic power supply.
This is according to Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Mines and Energy and MP for Abuakwa South Constituency, Samuel Atta Akyea.
The country has for about a month been experiencing a perpetual erratic power supply plunging some regions into total darkness.
The directive comes barely a month after Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Power Generators, Ghana (IPGG), Dr Elikplim Apetorgbor accused the VRA of excessive power exportation, claiming it is affecting the ability of the country to supply enough power to meet domestic obligation.
But Speaking in interview Samuel Atta Akyea revealed the move is to reaffirm the President’s commitment in resolving the prevailing instability in the power supply.
He said ‘’I don’t know whether the order has been carried out, but I hear it’s been given. That, by reason of what is happening the President is saying and I believe it is eminently sensible that: ‘Look, no matter what you are raking in from external export of electricity, stop it and let us benefit first.
“Because you know the president has been very strong and powerful in terms of giving us power al this seven years. So if anybody is very much concerned in terms of legacy delivery then it’s the president. And I’m sure he’s going to do everything to secure us normal power as you’ve enjoyed this seven year.”
He added further engagements with various stakeholders in the value chain will be held to determine how the directive will be implemented.
Meanwhile Research Fellow at the Institute of Energy Security, IES Derrick Xatse, believes the move leaves much to be desired.
According to him the country’s power export is insignificant to the total energy demand of the country.
Speaking on the Starr Midday News, Derrick Xatse explained, ‘‘if you’re having 3600 Megawatts per day of power which is what he whole country needs and then you’re looking at just exporting barely less than 300 Megawatts, and you think that is what will solve the energy crises, then probably you are missing the target.’’
According to him government must address the real cause of the issue-the financial issues plaguing the sector.
He shared until government addresses the underlying issue, suspending the exportation of power will only alleviate the challenge and not solve the problem.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Elikplim Awuku