"Dumsor Returning? Three Independent Power Producers to Shut Down Next Week If Debts Remain Unpaid, Warns IPP CEO"

Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, the CEO of the Independent Power Producers (IPP), has issued a warning that the government's failure to pay the IPPs' outstanding debts could result in the shutdown of three significant power facilities next week.

Dr. Apetorgbor disclosed on Tuesday night, November 19, 2024, on JoyFM's Top Story that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) owes the IPPs $259 million, a debt that the government has not yet paid despite prior promises.

"Three important power plants will shut down next week if nothing is done by the end of this week," he said.

"For now, it's confidential, but I can tell you if nothing is done, three key IPPs will be shutting down as well," Dr. Apetorgbor said, declining to provide the names of the plants.

Disputing Government Claims

The CEO of the IPP expressed skepticism about government attempts to address the situation, rejecting attempts at reconciliation and charging officials of not having sufficient information about the energy industry.

We know what we are talking about because we are current with our numbers. The government has no idea how to account for the numbers from the power sector. Therefore, you don't even need to believe the data that they provide," Dr. Apetorgbor stated.

Following a renegotiated agreement with Sunon Asogli Power, Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam recently declared that power supply problems would settle. His remarks follow his announcement. As part of larger restructuring efforts with other IPPs, the renegotiation was intended to resolve financial disagreements that caused Sunon Asogli to briefly suspend operations.

Questioning the Minister’s Assurance

Dr. Apetorgbor challenged the Finance Minister to produce documentation of any agreements made with IPPs, casting doubt on the veracity of his statements. "I have stated unequivocally that his remarks were genuinely political. He is unable to present any contracts he has signed with IPPs. "Let him share it with the public if he has," he urged.

Dr. Apetorgbor also cautioned that the government would have to move swiftly to stop more shutdowns the following week if the Minister's promises were sincere. Take a look at the video below.

Given that such shutdowns could interrupt the nation's power supply, this development has sparked worries about the stability of Ghana's energy industry.