Ghana is grappling with a severe electricity crisis, forcing the country to implement nationwide load shedding or “dumsor” to manage the significant deficit between power supply and demand, according to an analysis by GRIDCo, Ghana’s power transmission company.
The analysis, covering the period from March 27 to April 2, 2024, reveals that Ghana’s peak electricity demand has soared to 3,618 megawatts (MW), far exceeding the available generation capacity of 3,251 MW.
Despite having an installed capacity of 5,626 MW, the nation is only utilizing approximately 58% of its total potential, leaving a staggering deficit of 2,375 MW.
The situation is exacerbated by ongoing maintenance issues, which have rendered 740 MW of capacity unavailable. Among these, 330 MW remains uncertain in terms of restoration timelines, posing a significant challenge to the grid’s stability.
Furthermore, four thermal power plants with a combined capacity of 595 MW are offline due to inadequate fuel supply, while a fault in the TICO unit 3 plant has rendered 120 MW unavailable until December 2024, impacting the entire year’s power generation by that capacity.
As a result, Ghana faces a significant shortfall of 1,455 MW in electricity generation capability, compounded by limitations in gas supply, which is essential for powering thermal plants.
In an effort to prioritize local demand, GRIDCo has curtailed power exports by 40% during peak hours. However, this measure has proven insufficient to bridge the gap between supply and demand.
The hydroelectric landscape presents a mixed picture, with the Akosombo dam maintaining stable electricity generation due to sufficient water levels, while the Bui dam’s declining levels raise concerns. If the downward trend persists, the Bui dam’s ability to generate power could be compromised, leading to its restricted usage to peak hours only.
To align generation capabilities with demand, Ghana has been forced to implement power shedding measures, shedding 380 MW during normal times and an additional 505 MW during peak hours daily. The primary challenge remains the inadequate gas supply, which is essential for powering thermal plants.
GRIDCo’s analysis suggests that utilizing idle thermal plants can partially offset the 505 MW shortfall during peak times caused by fuel shortages or equipment faults. However, this solution is contingent upon securing sufficient gas supply, which remains a significant obstacle.
