The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has issued a stern warning to residents in the Tamale Metropolis about the growing issue of illegal electricity connections. Speaking after a visit to the region, Jinapor emphasised the severe threat that power theft poses to the country's electricity supply, warning that it could potentially lead to widespread blackouts. He pointed out that the Northern Region is responsible for over 50% of the country’s power theft, with Tamale alone accounting for more than 70% of these illegal connections.
The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has been particularly affected by this problem, with millions of cedis in revenue losses due to these illegal activities. Jinapor highlighted that while many residents pay their electricity bills responsibly, the actions of a few individuals bypassing the system undermine the efforts of law-abiding citizens and damage the power infrastructure. He stressed that such practices are not only unfair but also unsustainable, ultimately draining the power system.
During his visit to Tamale, Jinapor inspected ongoing construction work at NEDCo’s sub-stations in Lameshegu and Adubiliyili. The Minister urged residents to desist from illegal connections and promised that the Ministry, in collaboration with NEDCo, would step up efforts to address this problem. Public education campaigns about the dangers of power theft are set to intensify, alongside a more aggressive mass disconnection and revenue mobilisation exercise. Jinapor emphasised that the goal is not just to enforce the law, but to ensure that the public is well-informed about the consequences of power theft.
He also called for the support of traditional leaders, assembly members, and other relevant stakeholders in the region, urging them to help curb the menace of illegal power connections. “We believe that a well-informed community will be a key part of the solution,” Jinapor stated. He underscored the importance of community cooperation in ensuring the success of the efforts to restore integrity to the power system.
In addition to tackling illegal connections, the Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to improving electricity infrastructure to meet the growing demand in Tamale and the wider Northern Region. He acknowledged that a reliable power supply is crucial for economic growth and quality of life, and the government is dedicated to addressing these needs.
The Northern Regional Minister, Adolf Ali John, also voiced his concerns about the situation, pledging his full support to tackle power theft. However, he appealed to NEDCo to consider offering a two-week grace period to customers in arrears, as some residents may need additional time to settle their debts. He explained that this approach could help improve collections and encourage more people to pay their electricity bills on time.
The efforts to combat illegal power connections in Tamale are part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Energy to ensure a stable and sustainable power supply for all Ghanaians. Through public education, enforcement, and infrastructure improvements, the government aims to protect the nation’s power systems and ensure that all citizens benefit from reliable electricity services.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0