Duncan Amoah, the Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has endorsed the government’s plan to add 1,200 megawatts of electricity to the national grid, describing the initiative as a major step toward strengthening Ghana’s energy security while calling for a faster transition from thermal generation to renewable energy.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, Duncan Amoah said the government’s decision to diversify the country’s energy mix would reduce long-term dependence on expensive fuel for electricity generation.
“If there is something that this government has done well, it is also managing the energy sector,” Mr Amoah said.
He welcomed the planned addition of 1,200 megawatts of power generation capacity, saying it would help meet rising electricity demand driven by urban expansion while easing pressure on the national grid.
“I am happy that Ato Forson is looking at that kind of investment. 1200 is a lot. If they can realise that, what it means is that the foreseeable generation deficit that over time we develop because of development and expansion in our cities will be catered for,” he said.
Duncan Amoah said Ghana should increasingly move away from thermal power generation, arguing that the country’s abundant sunshine makes solar energy a more sustainable and cost-effective option.
“I have advocated for a time to come where we decelerate on thermal generation and rather go for solar because for our part of the world, the sun is virtually out 11 months out of 12,” he said.
He noted that reducing reliance on heavy fuel oil and light crude oil to power thermal plants would lower operating costs and lessen the financial burden of electricity generation.
“You cannot continue to have your power plants consume HFO and light crude oil. Every now and then you are burning a lot of money to be able to put your grid on,” Amoah said.
He also welcomed efforts by some commercial banks to finance solar installations for households, urging more financial institutions to introduce similar products to encourage wider adoption of renewable energy.
“I think all Ghanaian banks should be pushed in that direction. At least for domestic users, you should be able to have some five or 10 panels, generate something, turn on your fan, keep your fridge on and be able to run as a normal household,” he said.
