ECG: Forgive us for power outages, We’re working to restore supply

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has apologised to customers affected by recent power disruptions following the fire outbreak at the Akosombo GRIDCO substation, assuring that engineers are working to restore full electricity supply.

Speaking on the situation on the Channel One Newsroom on Sunday, April 26, ECG’s General Manager for External Relations, Dr. Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku, said the incident blocked about 1,000 megawatts of power but stressed that supply has remained relatively stable in parts of the country.

“After Akosombo, the fact is that it blocked about 1000 megawatts, but I am sure you also understand that even after losing 1000 megawatts, we have still been consistent with power supply within some parts of the country,” he said.

He explained that the situation is still being addressed, with restoration works ongoing across the transmission network.

“The question is the current situation at the Akosombo GRIDCO substation is work in progress. As I speak to you there is a resolution, there are some of the issues that have been resolved, some parts of the country are back on full supply pending other lines that will be restored,” he stated.

Dr. Ayiku cautioned against calls for a load-shedding timetable at this stage, describing it as premature.

“So if we start talking about a load shedding timetable right now don’t you think it is too early to call for a load shedding time table,” he said.

He added that engineers have assured ECG that full restoration will be achieved soon, urging calm from the public.

“The engineers have assured us that very soon we are getting back on supply. I would once again urge the general public and our customers to remain calm and be assured that the situation is under control,” he said.

Dr. Ayiku apologised to customers for the inconvenience caused, describing the incident as unexpected and significant.

“I sincerely apologise for the inconvenience our cherished customers are facing. The incident wasn’t expected. It was a major incident which has rendered an entire control room affected and down and we sincerely apologise to our customers,” he said.

He added that ECG, GRIDCO and the Volta River Authority (VRA) are working together to restore full power supply across the country.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has directed the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) to step aside pending investigations into a fire outbreak at the Akosombo Power Control Centre.