The Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Power Producers (IPP), Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, has raised alarms over the imminent shutdown of three critical power plants due to mounting unpaid debts.
Dr. Apetorgbor revealed that the government, through the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has defaulted on a $259 million payment owed to the IPPs. This announcement comes just days after President Nana Akufo-Addo commissioned the Bridge Power Project, aimed at addressing power shortfalls in the energy sector.
In an interview with Citi Business News on Tuesday, November 19, Dr. Apetorgbor urged the government to act swiftly to prevent the looming crisis, emphasizing the need to clear the outstanding debts to ensure continued energy production.
“I can confirm that all is not well. If there is no intervention before Friday, I can tell you that by Monday, three key power plants will be off the grid. It is a serious matter; this is not a joke,” he stated.
Dr. Apetorgbor also expressed skepticism over repeated assurances from the government, stating, “We have received these assurances several times, so this can’t sway us. We are resolute.”
He further criticized claims made by President Akufo-Addo during the commissioning of the Bridge Power Project, which suggested that the new plant would eliminate the energy crises, locally known as “dumsor.”
“To say that the commissioning of this plant is going to put dumsor to rest, I find it difficult to relate,” Dr. Apetorgbor added.
The situation underscores the urgent need for financial intervention to sustain energy production and avert potential disruptions to Ghana’s power supply.