The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has announced that the government has procured more than 2,000 transformers to enhance electricity distribution, improve power reliability, and support growing demand across Ghana. This investment is part of broader interventions in generation, transmission, and distribution aimed at improving the stability and efficiency of the country's power system.
Dr. Jinapor disclosed that electricity access in Ghana has increased to 89.13%, while installed generation capacity has reached 5,854 megawatts (MW). Renewable energy capacity has also increased to 345MW, reflecting progress in efforts to diversify the country's energy mix. The minister made these announcements at the 2026 Energy Sector Performance Review Retreat.
The minister acknowledged that 2026 has been a challenging year for the power sector, particularly following a fire at the Akosombo Switchyard in April, which resulted in the loss of over 1,000MW and placed considerable pressure on the national electricity system. He commended the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) for their technical response and coordination during the incident.
Dr. Jinapor stated that the government has continued to invest in transmission infrastructure, with several projects ongoing across the country. The commencement of the process towards constructing the Ho–Asiekpe transmission line is part of efforts to strengthen the national grid. He emphasized that generation alone is not enough and that the transmission and distribution infrastructure must be in place to deliver reliable power to homes, businesses, and industry.
On generation, the minister disclosed that eight of the ten units of the Anwomaso Thermal Plant have been commissioned, with six currently in service. The project is expected to generate 250MW by the end of 2026. He also revealed that the renegotiation of independent power producer (IPP) agreements has received approval from Cabinet and Parliament, supporting the government's efforts to improve the financial sustainability of the power sector.
Dr. Jinapor provided an update on the proposed Accra–Kumasi 330kV transmission line, indicating that the consultant tender has been evaluated and the scoping report and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) have been completed. Despite the progress, he noted that outstanding challenges relating to transmission infrastructure, distribution efficiency, project financing, and the implementation of key programs require continued attention.
Looking towards 2027, the minister said the government will focus on translating plans and commitments into measurable outcomes, while expanding electricity access and ensuring that additional generation capacity is delivered in line with growing demand. He also called for accelerated implementation of renewable energy initiatives, including solar projects, the completion of 35 mini-grids, expansion of solar home systems, and net-metering, clean cooking initiatives, and advancement of the Ghana Nuclear Power Programme.
Key points
- The government has procured over 2,000 transformers to strengthen electricity distribution and improve power reliability.
- Electricity access in Ghana has reached 89.13%, with installed generation capacity at 5,854 megawatts (MW).
- The government will focus on expanding electricity access and delivering additional generation capacity in line with growing demand in 2027.
