The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced that independent power producer Sunon Asogli is expected to resume operations in the coming weeks. This development follows significant progress in addressing the financial challenges that led to the plant's temporary shutdown.
Ing. David Asamoah, the acting Managing Director of ECG, revealed during an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile that the company has introduced a weekly payment plan to clear its debt to Sunon Asogli and other power producers. The move aims to rebuild trust and stabilize Ghana’s power supply.
"Sunon Asogli halted operations due to debts, but the good news is that they will be back soon," Mr. Asamoah stated. "We have shown commitment by shifting from monthly to weekly payments to settle the outstanding amounts."
The power plant ceased operations after ECG's failure to settle a $259 million debt, a decision Sunon Asogli described as necessary to sustain its financial stability. The shutdown underscored the broader financial challenges facing Ghana's energy sector, where delayed payments to independent power producers (IPPs) risk disrupting electricity supply.
To resolve the issue, the Finance Minister, Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, announced a renegotiated agreement with Sunon Asogli aimed at easing financial tensions. The government expects this arrangement to prevent future disruptions and restore stability to the national grid.
Mr. Asamoah emphasized ECG's efforts to honor its commitments, adding that payment adjustments began on October 8, 2024. While the initial payments were insufficient to prompt an immediate resumption of operations, the new plan demonstrates ECG’s intention to meet its obligations.
However, challenges remain, with the CEO of the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) Association, Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, warning of potential shutdowns at three other power plants if debts are not settled soon. "If nothing changes by next week, three key plants will cease operations," he cautioned.
Despite these warnings, ECG is optimistic that its proactive steps will avert further disruptions. The company has assured Ghanaians that it is committed to maintaining power supply stability while addressing its financial constraints.
This development highlights the importance of timely payments and collaborative efforts in sustaining the energy sector. Experts have called for more robust financial management and innovative policies to mitigate recurring challenges.
The resolution of the Sunon Asogli issue is a positive step, but it also underscores the need for long-term strategies to ensure Ghana’s energy security.
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