Accra, Feb. 27, GNA - Mr Joseph Adda, Minister of Energy, on Tuesday told Parliament that because of encouraging results of tests on samples of bio-diesel, the Energy Ministry "has taken various steps towards establishing bio-fuels as an integral part of the country's energy mix."
"In August 2003, the Ministry tasked the Energy Commission to examine the feasibility of producing and consuming not only bio-diesel but bio-fuels in Ghana," the Energy Minister said in response to a question.
Dr Kwame Ampofo, (NDC-South Dayi) had sought to find out how the Ministry was using the results of tests conducted, which indicated that oil from the seed of jatropha plant, an indigenous plant, was suitable for use as both industrial and automotive diesel oil.
Mr Adda said the Energy Commission has recommended "that there is the need for the development of a policy and regulatory framework for the production and use of bio-fuels in Ghana."
"In pursuant of this, the Ministry in August 2005, constituted a committee to draft a National Bio-Fuels Policy. A draft policy has been completed and the Ministry is currently reviewing the policy document from which actionable activities will be formulated under a National Bio-fuels Strategy and implementation programme."
He said in June last year, representatives the Energy Commission and other persons visited India and Malaysia on a study tour "to apprise themselves of the equipment used in bio-fuel production as well as study developments and experiences in the bio-fuel industries of these countries."
"It is our hope that all these measures will enable the nation benefit from oil seed plants such as jatropha in our bid to add to our fuel supply," Mr Adda added.
In response to another question, the Minister told the house that the Electricity Company of Ghana does not normally construct high-tension lines on people's property. He said in extreme cases however, the company may construct the high-tension poles and resolve the issue with the communities, including compensation.
Mr. Stephen Amoanor Kwao, (NDC-Upper Manya) had asked for compensation for people whose houses and other properties have been affected by high-tension lines constructed by the company. Mr Adda said the Ministry had delegated the settlement of compensation issues to the district assemblies in matters of rural electrification. 27 Feb. 07
