Enough is enough – V/R minister slams ECG over persistent power outages
Volta Regional Minister James Gunu has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) over persistent power outages and voltage fluctuations across the region. He described the utility provider’s performance as “a complete disappointment” and called for consistent, transparent communication with the public. According to him, the lack of prior notice for outages has led to damage of appliances and loss of livelihoods, urging ECG to notify residents in advance so they can make necessary preparations.
Gunu’s remarks reflect widespread frustration among residents and businesses who continue to endure frequent power disruptions. He emphasized the need for ECG to restore public trust by improving its services and accountability. “You are disappointing the people of this region. What crime have we committed?” he asked, urging underperforming agencies to take responsibility and act swiftly.
Responding to the criticism, Volta Regional ECG Manager, Ms. Christina Jatoe-Kaleo, acknowledged the ongoing challenges but pointed to issues within the transmission network managed by GRIDCo, ECG’s supplier. She explained that when GRIDCo’s supply is insufficient, it affects ECG’s ability to distribute power effectively. “If what they give us is already low, by the time it reaches you, it’s insufficient,” she said, stressing ECG’s limited control over upstream issues.
Jatoe-Kaleo clarified that ECG distinguishes between planned outages—which are communicated—and unexpected faults, especially those occurring at night. She assured the Minister that ECG has a 24-hour technical team actively working to resolve faults as they arise. “We always inform the media and assemblies about planned outages,” she added, while noting that faults can’t always be predicted.
She also highlighted ongoing efforts to build ECG’s technical capacity and encouraged stronger collaboration among ECG, GRIDCo, and government entities. She mentioned that persistent issues are reported to ECG’s head office in Accra and that the company is open to forming a regional task force, “Team Volta,” to tackle the crisis collectively.
Despite these assurances, Minister Gunu remained unsatisfied, warning that the public’s patience is wearing thin. He criticized ECG’s culture of evasion and dramatized his frustration by stating, “Today, I am the letter,” referring to past complaints that received no response. This incident comes amid wider controversies surrounding ECG, including the disappearance of over a thousand containers of imported equipment at Tema Port.
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