Energy Ministry rolls out strategy to clear debt

The Energy Ministry is to formulate a new energy policy to help clear huge indebtedness within the power sector and sustain interest in oil exploration.

According to the acting Director in-charge of Petroleum at the Energy Ministry, George Mensah Okley, the novelty is in agreement with government's agenda to make Ghana the hub for refining quality petroleum products.

In an exclusive interview with Class News Jerry Akornor after stakeholder National Energy Policy forum in Accra, Mr Okley said government will maximise local content and ensure indigenous participation in the upstream petroleum sector.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director of National Development Planning Commission, Winfred Nelson, wants the Energy Ministry to consider SDGs in fashioning out the new national energy policy. According to him, Ghana has signed the SDGs and must take steps by way of policy towards achievement.

But, Executive Director of the African Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), Benjamin Boakye, says political interference at the Energy Commission and other state institutions is inhibiting institutional capacity building. He therefore wants amendments and change in policy direction to address it.

Mr Boakye also wants government to come clear on the reasons for the extension of the Karpower ship deal.