Vice President Briefed on Reforms and Progress in Ghana’s Energy Sector

The Vice President of Ghana, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to stabilizing and transforming the country’s energy sector following a working visit to the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition.

The Vice President met with officials of the ministry, led by the Minister, John Abdulai Jinapor, to receive a comprehensive briefing on the current state of the sector, ongoing reforms, and strategic measures aimed at ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for the country.

Contracts Audited to Strengthen Accountability

During the meeting, the ministry outlined measures being implemented to restore efficiency and accountability in the sector. Officials revealed that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) had subjected 347 contracts to a value-for-money audit.

Following the audit, 202 contracts worth US$227.6 million, £1.17 million, and €4.08 million have been terminated. The remaining 145 contracts are currently under further scrutiny, with the ministry indicating that any contracts found to be inconsistent with value-for-money standards will also be discontinued.

The move forms part of government’s broader efforts to promote transparency, reduce waste, and strengthen fiscal discipline within the energy sector.

Improvements in Power Generation and Fuel Supply

The ministry also reported improvements in Ghana’s power generation and fuel supply systems. Officials said the country’s energy mix is gradually shifting away from heavier fuels toward gas-based generation, a transition expected to enhance sustainability while improving reliability in electricity supply.

Crude oil production from major fields, including the Jubilee Field and the Sankofa Field, has also begun to increase, contributing to improved energy security.

Another key development highlighted during the briefing was the resumption of crude oil processing at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR). The refinery’s return to operations marks a significant step toward restoring the country’s refining capacity.

According to the ministry, processing volumes at TOR have increased significantly, signaling renewed operational confidence and progress in revitalizing the facility.

Push for Renewable Energy and Green Transition

Officials further emphasized the government’s commitment to renewable energy and green transition initiatives. Key projects currently underway include the expansion of solar street lighting across communities, installation of solar-powered water pumps for agriculture, and development of infrastructure to support electric vehicle (EV) charging.

Efforts are also being made to reduce the cost of solar technologies to encourage wider adoption, particularly among farmers and rural communities where affordable energy solutions are crucial for productivity.

Vice President Commends Ministry

In her remarks, Vice President Opoku-Agyemang commended the minister, management, and staff of the ministry and its 16 agencies for their dedication and professionalism despite longstanding challenges facing the sector.

She acknowledged that the energy sector has historically struggled with legacy debts and structural constraints, which have in the past posed risks of power supply disruptions.

However, she noted that improved planning, stronger financial discipline, and better stakeholder engagement are helping to restore confidence among investors and consumers.

The Vice President stressed the importance of long-term planning and the need for government institutions to reassess strategies that have proven ineffective.

Commitment to Energy Security

She emphasized that energy security remains critical to Ghana’s national development, supporting industrial growth, agricultural productivity, and the livelihoods of households.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang assured the ministry of the government’s continued support as it works to stabilize the sector, accelerate the transition to greener energy sources, and deliver reliable power to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for Ghanaians.