Ghana Energy & Infrastructure News

Follow Ghana's energy and infrastructure story: electricity supply and the power grid, ECG and dumsor, fuel prices, oil and gas, and the road, rail, and port projects reshaping the country. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

VRA Reports GH¢8.9 Billion Revenue Amidst Liquidity Warnings and Proposed Strategy Shift for Regional Power Exports
energy and infrastructure|

VRA Reports GH¢8.9 Billion Revenue Amidst Liquidity Warnings and Proposed Strategy Shift for Regional Power Exports

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has navigated a complex fiscal year in 2025, reporting a total electricity revenue of GH¢8.9 billion despite mounting financial pressures. While the Authority remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy sector, contributing 48% of the country’s total electricity generation, leadership has warned that inter-utility debt and payment delays are significantly threatening its liquidity. This financial update comes as the Authority also re-evaluates its regional export strategies to balance domestic needs with international commercial obligations. During a recent performance review, VRA CEO Ing. Edward Obeng Kenzo detailed that while revenue declined by 4.0% compared to 2024 and the cost of sales rose by an equal percentage, the VRA managed to achieve a net profit of GH¢88 million. A notable highlight was the Authority’s improved foreign exchange position, which swung from a substantial loss of GH¢695 million in 2024 to a gain of GH¢237 million in 2025. However, Kenzo emphasized that the persistent issue of inter-utility debt continues to hamper the execution of vital capacity projects, necessitating urgent resolutions to ensure long-term operational sustainability. Complementing the financial report, VRA Board Chairman Jabesh Amissah-Arthur has proposed a strategic shift in how the Authority handles power shortages. Rather than implementing total cuts to neighboring countries during domestic supply gaps, Amissah-Arthur advocated for proportional reductions. He suggested that a uniform 30% cut across both Ghana and its neighboring markets would be more beneficial than isolating regional partners. This approach aims to protect the long-term commercial value of Ghana’s export market, ensuring that the VRA remains a reliable supplier in the West African sub-region while managing local shortages. As the VRA continues to pursue additional capacity projects, its ability to manage the delicate balance between domestic demand and regional trade will be critical. The Authority’s shift toward a more integrated regional strategy, coupled with its efforts to stabilize its balance sheet against rising operational costs, underscores its central role in Ghana's economic infrastructure. Moving forward, the resolution of inter-utility debt will be paramount to ensuring that the VRA can maintain its profit margins and continue providing the reliable power necessary for both national growth and regional cooperation.

Government Intensifies Flood Mitigation Works at Mallam Junction to Provide Long-Term Drainage Relief
energy and infrastructure|

Government Intensifies Flood Mitigation Works at Mallam Junction to Provide Long-Term Drainage Relief

The government has launched a series of intensified interventions at Mallam Junction to address the perennial flooding that has long plagued residents, motorists, and businesses in the area. Moving away from the traditional model of reactive emergency responses following heavy downpours, this renewed strategy focuses on proactive, sustained engineering and environmental management. Central to the initiative is the deployment of dedicated operational teams tasked with restoring vital waterways and improving the overall capacity of the local drainage network to handle significant stormwater runoff. A key component of this operation is the extensive dredging of the Lafa water retention basin and the systematic removal of accumulated waste that has historically obstructed flow. Furthermore, authorities have begun identifying and removing illegal structures and encroachments that interfere with drainage paths. These efforts are being coordinated through a multi-agency approach involving national government bodies, private-sector stakeholders, and the Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly. The assembly’s role is particularly critical in monitoring ongoing activities and enforcing sanitation bylaws to prevent the recurrence of illegal dumping, which has significantly contributed to the landfill-related challenges in the district. Local businesses and residents have expressed a cautious sense of optimism regarding these developments, welcoming the shift toward a more permanent solution. For years, the Mallam Junction area has faced severe disruptions to commerce and daily life whenever it rains, leading to calls for more than just temporary fixes. Community leaders emphasize that the success of this intervention will depend on the continued collaboration between all stakeholders and the consistent maintenance of the reclaimed infrastructure. As the project progresses, the focus remains on ensuring that these drainage improvements are robust enough to withstand future rainy seasons and provide lasting environmental relief to the community.

COMAC Demands Full Fuel Price Deregulation and 14-Day Suspension of New Petroleum Tax Provisions
energy and infrastructure|

COMAC Demands Full Fuel Price Deregulation and 14-Day Suspension of New Petroleum Tax Provisions

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has intensified its advocacy for a complete overhaul of Ghana's downstream petroleum sector, calling on President John Mahama’s administration to end government interference in fuel pricing. CEO Dr. Riverson Oppong has issued a sharp critique of current policies, arguing that the market remains only partially deregulated while state-imposed subsidies and price caps hinder private business operations. Central to these demands is a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Ministry of Finance to suspend Section 136 of the Customs Act, 2026. COMAC warns that the new tax framework, which shifts tax responsibilities from Oil and LPG Marketing Companies to Bulk Import, Distribution, and Export Companies, lacks proper consultation and could jeopardize the national fuel supply by increasing costs and operational risks. Dr. Oppong emphasized that the industry is currently facing immense pressure from rising international oil prices and a "saturated" domestic market. With 245 Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) already competing for market share, COMAC has questioned the rationale behind licensing new entrants while existing players struggle under government-mandated price structures. Specifically, the Chamber pointed to the GH"2-per-litre diesel subsidy as a complicating factor that obscures true market costs. Dr. Oppong argued that for a free market to function effectively, private operators must be empowered to set prices independently of state controls, noting that excessive intervention remains one of the industry's most significant hurdles. To alleviate the burden on consumers and businesses, COMAC is advocating for a strategic redistribution of Ghana’s petroleum wealth. The Chamber proposes that the government freeze petroleum taxes and levies, redirecting unexpected "windfall" revenues from the upstream crude oil production sector to support the struggling downstream market. Dr. Oppong also sought to clarify the distinction between the Uniform Pricing Policy Fund (UPPF) and government subsidies. He explained that while the UPPF is vital for ensuring fuel price parity across all regions of Ghana—preventing higher costs in remote areas—it does not directly deplete government revenue in the same way that tax-based subsidies do. Looking ahead, COMAC has signaled its readiness to hold an emergency meeting to determine further actions if the Ministry of Finance fails to address the concerns regarding the Customs Act within the two-week window. The Chamber is calling for a collaborative dialogue between state stakeholders and industry players to create a more transparent, balanced, and sustainable pricing regime. By aligning the profits of the upstream sector with the operational needs of the downstream sector, COMAC believes the government can provide more effective relief to consumers without compromising the financial health of private oil marketing firms.

energy and infrastructure|

Government Intervenes to Stabilize Fuel Prices as NPA Caps Diesel Below GH¢20 per Litre

Fuel prices at Ghanaian pumps are expected to remain stable for at least the next two weeks following a strategic government intervention aimed at shielding consumers from rising international costs. The directive requires both the state-owned Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) and the Sentuo Oil Refinery to maintain their current selling prices to Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). This move is intended to provide immediate relief to motorists and businesses, ensuring that the cost of transportation and basic goods does not surge further during the current pricing window. According to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), these measures are specifically designed to keep diesel prices below the GH¢20 per litre threshold throughout the first pricing window of October. NPA Chief Executive Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe revealed that without this intervention, consumers could have seen diesel prices soar to as high as GH¢22 per litre. To prevent this, the government has suspended the GH¢1 Energy Sector Levy on diesel for the month and is maintaining an existing GH¢2 subsidy on the product. These decisions were finalized during an emergency meeting convened to address the domestic fallout from rising global energy costs. Dr. Riverson Oppong, Chief Executive of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), highlighted the critical role of the Supplier Reference Exchange Rate (SREF) in these pricing dynamics. He noted that while Ghana’s pricing model remains fundamentally cost-reflective—factoring in taxes, levies, and exchange rates—the current government directive effectively delays immediate hikes that would otherwise be passed directly to the consumer. Dr. Oppong emphasized that as long as the SREF remains constant and refineries adhere to the price freeze, the immediate pressure on the public will be significantly alleviated. This intervention follows a challenging period for Ghanaian motorists, who have faced nine fuel price hikes within a seven-month span in 2026. While the current measures offer a temporary reprieve, industry experts and the government will conduct further reviews to evaluate the long-term sustainability of these subsidies and price controls. For now, the stability provides a necessary buffer for public transport operators and the broader business community, though the outlook remains closely tied to the stability of the cedi and international market trends.

A close-up photograph showing two fuel pump nozzles, one green and one red, being held by two people near the open fuel tank of a silver car. The image captures the act of refueling at a petrol station, illustrating the retail side of the energy sector.
energy and infrastructure|

Global Diesel Reserve Release: Europe and G7 Aim to Ease Fuel Price Pressure in Ghana

In a major move to stabilize volatile energy markets, European nations have agreed to release a significant portion of their emergency diesel reserves. The announcement, made by U.S. President Donald Trump on October 2, 2026, comes as the G7 and the International Energy Agency (IEA) prepare to inject approximately 100 million barrels of oil and fuel products into the global supply chain. This coordinated effort is primarily aimed at combating the sharp rise in diesel prices, which have surged globally following intensified geopolitical tensions, including the conflict between the United States and Iran. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has notably urged European allies, particularly France and Germany, to expedite these releases to provide immediate relief to a strained global economy. For Ghana, this international intervention offers a glimmer of hope for a domestic market heavily burdened by high petroleum costs. As a country that relies almost entirely on imported refined petroleum products, Ghana is exceptionally vulnerable to international price shocks. The increase in global diesel supply is expected to eventually lower the cost of landed products, which could provide much-needed breathing room for the commercial transport and agricultural sectors. These industries are currently facing immense pressure as fuel costs continue to drive up the prices of essential goods and services across the country. However, energy experts and market analysts caution that the impact on Ghanaian pump prices may not be immediate or direct. While the global supply increase is a positive development, several domestic variables remain at play. The eventual price Ghanaian consumers pay is heavily influenced by the performance of the Ghana Cedi against the U.S. Dollar, existing domestic fuel taxes, and the pricing strategies of Bulk Oil Distributing Companies (BDCs). Until the local currency stabilizes and the effects of the global reserve release filter through the supply chain, the extent of the relief for Ghanaian motorists remains to be seen. As the situation develops, the government and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) will be under increasing pressure to ensure that any reductions in international market prices are reflected at local filling stations. The long-term outlook for Ghana’s energy security continues to depend on both these external supply adjustments and internal fiscal policies. For now, the eyes of the nation remain on the global market, waiting to see if the release of millions of barrels of diesel will be enough to break the cycle of rising costs that has characterized the energy sector in recent months.

energy and infrastructure|

Nigeria to Establish Special Energy Zones for 24-Hour Power Supply in Major Industrial Hubs

The Nigerian government has announced an ambitious plan to establish special energy zones aimed at providing uninterrupted, 24-hour electricity supply to the country’s primary commercial and industrial centers. According to the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, the initiative is a strategic pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope Agenda." By focusing on high-impact economic corridors, the government intends to solve long-standing power challenges that have historically stifled the nation’s industrial output and private sector growth. The proposed energy zones are set to be strategically located along Nigeria's most critical economic arteries. These include the Lagos metropolitan area, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano route, and the Enugu-Port Harcourt axis. By prioritizing these specific regions, the government aims to modernize aging infrastructure and alleviate the chronic power constraints that have forced many businesses to rely on expensive alternative energy sources. Minister Tegbe emphasized that these zones are essential for fostering robust economic stability and positioning Nigeria as a competitive destination for international and domestic investment. A key component of the strategy involves deep collaboration with local electricity distribution companies (DisCos). The initiative is designed to be mutually beneficial, as it seeks to enhance the revenue streams for these private utility firms while simultaneously closing the massive service delivery gaps currently experienced by consumers. By ensuring a reliable 24-hour supply within these specialized zones, the government expects to create a more sustainable financial model for the power sector, which has often struggled with debt and collection inefficiencies. Looking forward, the establishment of these special energy zones is viewed as a pilot for broader power sector reforms across the West African nation. If successful, the government plans to scale the model to other regions, gradually addressing the systemic inefficiencies inherent in the national grid. The ultimate success of this infrastructure project will depend on the effective execution of the proposed upgrades and the ability of both the government and DisCos to maintain the promised service levels amid growing demand.

Konadu Irrigation Project Hits 96% Completion with Commissioning Expected Within One Month
energy and infrastructure|

Konadu Irrigation Project Hits 96% Completion with Commissioning Expected Within One Month

The Konadu Irrigation Project, located in the Kwahu Afram Plains South District, is on the verge of completion, with the first phase scheduled for commissioning in approximately one month. Currently standing at 96% completion, the project represents a significant milestone in the efforts to modernize agriculture and ensure food security through the Afram Plains Economic Enclave Irrigation Project (APEEIP). Once operational, the facility is expected to transform the local agricultural landscape by enabling year-round farming activities, moving away from a reliance on seasonal rainfall. Spanning approximately 900 hectares, the project utilizes a combination of advanced centre-pivot and gravity-fed irrigation systems to support the large-scale production of cereals and vegetables. Project Manager Josh Roche has confirmed that the final stages of work are underway, promising a reliable water supply that will facilitate high-yield farming. This infrastructure is designed to bridge the gap between traditional subsistence farming and modern commercial agriculture, providing the necessary tools for farmers to scale their operations significantly through modern methods. Central to the project's success is its integrated economic model, which employs an anchor-tenant and outgrower framework. This strategy is designed to connect smallholder farmers with established commercial operators, fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge and resources can be shared. By integrating small-scale farmers into a larger commercial network, the project aims to improve market access and technical expertise for local growers, ultimately boosting rural incomes and the regional economy in the Afram Plains. As the project nears its official launch, the implications for Ghana’s agricultural sector are profound. By facilitating consistent production of essential food crops regardless of weather conditions, the Konadu Irrigation Project serves as a critical component for future irrigation initiatives across the country. The transition to year-round farming in the Kwahu Afram Plains South District is expected to stabilize food supplies and enhance commercial output, marking a significant step forward in the nation's journey toward sustainable agricultural self-sufficiency.

Contractor Urges Government to Settle Arrears as 90% Complete Ekyeamamfrom-Pivot Irrigation Project Stalls
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Contractor Urges Government to Settle Arrears as 90% Complete Ekyeamamfrom-Pivot Irrigation Project Stalls

The Ekyeamamfrom-Pivot Irrigation Project in the Afram Plains, currently standing at 90% completion, has hit a critical standstill due to mounting unpaid government certificates. The project contractor has issued an urgent appeal to the government to settle three outstanding payment certificates that have remained unpaid for nearly a year. Without these funds, the final phase of the infrastructure, which is vital for the region's agricultural output, remains in limbo despite the significant progress made to date. During a recent inspection by Parliament’s Committee on Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs, Project Manager Anthony Abubakar highlighted that the delay is purely financial rather than technical. He emphasized that the primary hurdles have largely been overcome, with only minimal work remaining to make the facility fully operational. According to Abubakar, the payment certificates were submitted to the relevant authorities almost twelve months ago, and the continued delay is preventing the team from executing the final 10% of the installation. Once operational, the irrigation facility is designed to cover approximately 350 acres of farmland, providing a reliable water source for local farmers in the Afram Plains. The project is expected to revolutionize local production of high-demand crops, specifically potatoes and tomatoes, by allowing for year-round cultivation regardless of seasonal rainfall patterns. This infrastructure is viewed as a cornerstone for enhancing food security and boosting the economic livelihoods of the surrounding farming communities. Local farmers are reportedly prepared to begin intensive production immediately upon the project’s commissioning. Abubakar noted that if the government releases the necessary funding promptly, the facility could be completed and handed over by the end of the current year. The completion of the Ekyeamamfrom-Pivot project represents a significant opportunity for the agricultural sector, provided the fiscal bottlenecks are resolved to allow the contractor to conclude the remaining tasks on-site.

energy and infrastructure|

Roads Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza Refutes Claims of Accusing Adom Kyei’s Church of Road Obstruction

The Ministry of Roads and Highways has issued a formal clarification to address recent reports concerning Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza and a church associated with Prophet Stephen Adom Kyei-Duah. Kojo Danquah, the spokesperson for the Minister, stated that Mr. Agbodza did not accuse the church of blocking a public road, despite headlines suggesting otherwise. The Ministry emphasized that the Minister’s visit was intended to oversee infrastructure progress and ensure that all local institutions are accommodated during construction. According to the spokesperson, the claim that the church was creating an obstruction actually originated from the contractor on-site during a briefing, rather than from the Minister himself. Mr. Danquah clarified that the Minister’s role during the visit was to receive technical updates and provide direction based on those reports. He urged media outlets to correct the misleading headlines, noting that inaccurate reporting can create unnecessary friction between the government and religious organizations. To support this clarification, the Ministry pointed to video evidence of the site visit, which reveals the Minister’s actual instructions to the engineering team. The footage reportedly shows Minister Agbodza specifically directing the contractor to facilitate easy access for the church and its congregants. Additionally, the Minister focused on resolving broader infrastructure issues, including the improvement of road surfaces and the management of drainage systems to prevent local flooding. This collaborative approach underscores the government’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure while maintaining positive relationships with community stakeholders.

Suame Interchange Targeted for 2028 Completion to Address Chronic Traffic Congestion in Kumasi
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Suame Interchange Targeted for 2028 Completion to Address Chronic Traffic Congestion in Kumasi

The Ashanti Regional Director of Urban Roads, Ing. Nana Atta Poku Agyemang, has officially announced that the completion of the Suame Interchange will serve as a definitive solution to the chronic traffic congestion that has long hampered movement within Kumasi. As a pivotal component of the current administration's infrastructure strategy, the project is designed to facilitate the seamless flow of vehicles through one of the city’s most critical transport hubs. This development is expected to provide significant relief to commuters and commercial drivers who frequently endure lengthy delays at the Suame roundabout, thereby improving productivity and the general quality of life in the regional capital. The project is being executed under the 'Big Push' road programme, a comprehensive national initiative aimed at modernising Ghana's transport network to meet the demands of a growing population. According to Ing. Agyemang, the construction is being managed in two distinct phases, encompassing both the primary multi-level interchange and a series of complementary local road improvements. While the current official timeline targets a completion date of April 2028, the Director indicated that the project’s contractor is currently reviewing the work programme. There is a strong possibility that the schedule may be revised to allow for an earlier completion date, provided the current momentum of construction is maintained and technical milestones are reached ahead of time. Beyond immediate traffic relief, the Suame Interchange is strategically integrated into Kumasi’s broader inner ring road network, which is essential for regional connectivity. By linking various arterial routes, the interchange will create a more efficient transit loop around the city, reducing the need for long-distance traffic to pass through the congested city centre. This infrastructure upgrade is anticipated to stimulate local economic growth by lowering transport costs and improving the efficiency of the supply chain for goods moving through the Ashanti Region. As the government continues to prioritise high-impact infrastructure, the successful delivery of this project remains a key focus for the Ministry of Roads and Highways and the Department of Urban Roads.

GAPTE Reports Drastic Reduction in Adenta-Accra Travel Time Following Ayalolo Contra-Flow Implementation
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GAPTE Reports Drastic Reduction in Adenta-Accra Travel Time Following Ayalolo Contra-Flow Implementation

The Adenta-Accra corridor, historically known for its debilitating traffic congestion, has experienced a significant improvement in commuting efficiency following the introduction of a new contra-flow arrangement for Ayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services. The Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE) reported that on the first morning of the initiative, travel times were reduced from a staggering 2.5 hours to just 23 minutes during peak hours. This dramatic shift highlights the potential effectiveness of dedicated transit lanes in addressing the city’s chronic transportation challenges. The intervention successfully moved approximately 8,000 passengers on its first day of full implementation, demonstrating the high capacity of the BRT system when freed from general traffic bottlenecks. The contra-flow arrangement, which allows buses to operate against the traditional flow of traffic in specific lanes, is active during the morning peak hours. The operation is closely monitored and managed by the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service to ensure the safety of both bus passengers and other road users. This collaborative effort ensures that the dedicated lane remains clear for high-capacity vehicles, facilitating a smoother flow for the thousands who rely on public transport. GAPTE has emphasized that the success of this initiative relies on a paradigm shift from focusing on the movement of vehicles to prioritizing the movement of people. By providing a faster, more reliable alternative to private vehicle use, officials hope to encourage more commuters to utilize public transit, thereby easing overall road congestion. The executive is calling for continued public cooperation and adherence to the new traffic management strategies to maintain these gains and improve the daily lives of thousands of commuters on the Adenta-Accra route. This strategy is viewed as a critical step in modernizing urban transport within the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area.

The ABC of Ghana’s energy sector:
energy and infrastructure|

Ghana's Energy Sector Evolution: From Hydroelectric Roots to Industrial Powerhouse Aspirations

Ghana's trajectory toward becoming an industrial powerhouse under the administration of President John Mahama is intrinsically tied to the stability and evolution of its energy sector. As the lifeblood of the modern economy, the power sector is undergoing a critical transition from its historical reliance on raw material exports to a focus on value-added industrialization. This shift demands a robust understanding of the nation's energy generation, transmission, and distribution systems, which have evolved significantly since the early days of post-independence development. The current landscape is characterized by a strategic mix of traditional and emerging power sources designed to meet the growing demands of both domestic and commercial consumers. The history of Ghana's power journey is anchored by the Akosombo Dam, commissioned in 1965. While the dam initially provided a source of inexpensive electricity, its inherent vulnerability to droughts and fluctuating rainfall patterns eventually exposed the risks of over-reliance on hydroelectricity. To mitigate these risks and stabilize the national grid, the country has increasingly turned toward thermal power plants. Although thermal generation offers greater reliability regardless of weather conditions, it introduces significant financial challenges due to the high cost of purchasing fossil fuels. Concurrently, an emerging renewable energy sector—focused on solar and wind power—aims to diversify the energy mix and promote environmental sustainability in line with global trends. Moving power from generation sites to end-users involves a complex network managed by several key entities. The Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) is responsible for high-voltage transmission, serving as the bridge between power producers and distributors. At the local level, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) manage the final distribution to homes and businesses. However, this phase of the energy cycle faces persistent hurdles, primarily in the form of technical and commercial losses. Technical losses occur as energy is dissipated as heat through aging infrastructure, while commercial losses—resulting from unpaid bills or power theft—continue to drain the sector's revenue and hamper further investment. For Ghana to achieve its industrial ambitions, addressing these systemic challenges is paramount. Enhancing energy literacy among citizens, investors, and business owners is a critical step toward building a more transparent and efficient sector. By reducing distribution losses and successfully integrating renewable technologies, Ghana can create a more resilient energy framework. This evolution is not merely a technical necessity but a prerequisite for sustainable economic growth, ensuring that the electricity powering the nation's industry remains consistent, affordable, and accessible to all segments of society.