By: Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The Institute for Energy Security (IES) has cautioned the government to halt its plans to merge Volta River Authority (VRA), Bui Power Authority, Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
According to IES, while the proposed merger and restructuring of Ghana’s power sector may have its proponents, they believed the risks far outweigh the benefits in its current form.
In a statement issued and signed by the Executive Director of IES, Nana Amoasi VII, explained that what the government needs to do to address the country’s energy needs is to strengthen VRA, Bui Power Authority, ECG, and NEDCo rather than dismantle them.
The caution from the IES follows a draft bill proposing the merger of the VRA with Bui Power Authority, the combination of ECG with NEDCo, and the establishment of an independent Thermal Power Authority.
“While the proposed merger and restructuring of Ghana’s power sector may have its proponents, we believe that the risks far outweigh the benefits in its current form.
The focus should be on stabilising and strengthening the existing institutions, such as the VRA, Bui Power Authority, ECG, and NEDCo, rather than dismantling them.
We urge the government to reconsider the bill and work towards solutions that preserve Ghana’s energy security, affordability, and long-term sustainability,” Nana Amoasi VII said in his statement.
Meanwhile, some staff members of the VRA have also expressed strong opposition to the proposed draft bill, arguing that these decisions are not in the best interest of Ghanaians and could have severe consequences for the VRA and the nation.
