Energy Ministry distributes LED bulbs to MMDAs

The Ministry of Energy is confident its ongoing distribution of 12 million light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs to metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies dubbed Energy Conservation and Demand-side Management, will save the country some 150 to 250 megawatts of power.

The project is targeted at the efficient use of energy in a bid to tackle the increasing cost of electricity generation in the country.

According to Energy Minister, John Peter Amewu, government spent GHS200 million for the procurement of the bulbs, which will be freely distributed to households and specific institution “since their collective energy consumption accounts for over half of the national electricity demand”.

The distribution of the bulbs would see Metropolitan Assemblies receiving 50,000 bulbs (covering all types, 6W, 9W & 13W), Municipal assemblies receiving 40,000 (covering all types, 6W, 9W, & 13W) and District Assemblies receiving 30,000 (covering all types, 6W, 9W, & 13W).

Speaking to Class News, Communications Specialist at the Energy Ministry, Nana Oppong Damoah said the project is estimated to save the country some 150 to 250 megawatts of power.

In terms of cost, he intimated that it is less expensive to manage demand in an efficient and effective manner rather than adding more generation to the grid.

He added that although distribution is ongoing, moves are underway to ensure that the project covers all 16 regions where personnel will visit household to replace the bulbs.