ECG, VRA & GRIDCo allay dumsor fears ahead of Atuabo shutdown

Stakeholders in the power sector have assured Ghanaians of adequate measures to manage the situation as the Ghana National Gas Company readies to shut down the Atuabo Processing Plant.

The shutdown will be between February 3 – 20, 2017 to allow for the connection and commissioning of the gas pipeline system and other equipment from the TEN Fields to the Plant.

The situation is expected to record a 230MW shortfall from the AMERI Plant because of its sole dependence on Ghana Gas.

“We wish to assure the public that we have put in adequate measures to mitigate the impact of the shortfall,” a statement jointly signed by the Volta River Authority (VRA), Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) said.

The statement announced that additional power from the Akosombo and Kpong hydroelectric plants will be generated. Tema and Kpone thermal plants are also expected to add to the national volume.

“Additionally, some of the thermal units at Aboadze that have been shut down for planned maintenance would be returned into service during this period.”

Some volume will also be purchased from Cote d’Ivoire.

“We take this opportunity to assure electricity consumers and the general public that the power situation will be managed in the most efficient manner during this period to address the anticipated challenges in power supply.”