The Chief Executive Officer of the Independent Power Producers (IPP), Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, has issued a grave warning that three key power plants face an imminent shutdown due to unpaid debts.
He disclosed that the government, through the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has defaulted on a $259 million payment owed to the IPPs.
The warning follows President Akufo-Addo’s recent commissioning of the Bridge Power Project, aimed at addressing power shortages in the energy sector.
Speaking in an interview with Citi Business News on Tuesday, November 19, Dr. Apetorgbor emphasized the critical nature of the situation, urging immediate government intervention to avert an energy crisis.
“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. This is a serious matter; it is not a joke,” he stated.
He also highlighted the recurring nature of assurances from the government, expressing skepticism about their reliability. “We have received these assurances several times, so they no longer sway us. We are resolute,” he declared.
Concerns Over Energy Security
Dr. Apetorgbor further questioned President Akufo-Addo’s claim that the commissioning of the Bridge Power Project would permanently end the country’s energy shortages, commonly referred to as dumsor.
“To say that the commissioning of this plant is going to put dumsor to rest—I find it difficult to relate,” he remarked.
The looming power plant shutdown underscores the urgent need for the government to address the financial challenges in the energy sector to ensure consistent electricity supply and energy security.
