POWER OUTAGES PART OF UPGRADE, NOT RETURN TO ‘DUMSOR’ – MAHAMA ASSURES

POWER OUTAGES PART OF UPGRADE, NOT RETURN TO ‘DUMSOR’ – MAHAMA ASSURES

President John Dramani Mahama has assured Ghanaians that the recent power outages being experienced in parts of the country are not a return to the era of “dumsor,” but rather a result of ongoing efforts to improve electricity supply.

Speaking during an inspection of newly acquired transformers for the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), the President explained that the interruptions are necessary to replace ageing infrastructure and enhance the stability of power delivery.

He disclosed that government has procured about 2,500 transformers for nationwide distribution to address increasing electricity demand and replace outdated equipment. According to him, many existing transformers have become overstretched due to rapid population growth and expanding communities, citing instances where old equipment can no longer meet current needs.

President Mahama noted that large-scale replacement of transformers had not been undertaken for years, making the current intervention essential. He assured residents that they would be informed in advance of any planned outages during installation works.
He also highlighted that a significant number of the transformers are locally manufactured, describing this as a positive step for Ghana’s industrial sector.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, confirmed that installation has already begun in Tamale and other areas under NEDCo’s jurisdiction.

He revealed that although NEDCo initially requested 400 transformers, government supplied 500 to support the upgrade. Similar installation works are ongoing in Accra and Tema, with plans to extend to Kumasi in May, alongside the construction of new substations and expansion of power cables.

Dr. Jinapor urged the public to remain patient, emphasizing that the project is aimed at ensuring long-term stability in the country’s power supply. He added that the first phase of the programme will last three months, followed by additional phases over six months and one year.

Source: AdomOnline