Kumasi: The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced the commissioning of 37 new transformers in parts of the Ashanti Region. This initiative aims to enhance electricity supply and address persistent low-voltage challenges in the area.
According to Ghana News Agency, the commissioning is part of a broader operational initiative by the Ashanti West Operational Zone, supported by the Ministry of Energy's wider capital investment programme. The communities set to benefit from the upgrade include Abuakwa, Adum Ahinsan, Danyame, Ahinsan, Bibiani Kokoben, Suame, and sections of Offinso.
The ECG explained that the expansion is intended to relieve pressure on existing transformers, many of which have been operating near or above capacity due to rising demand in rapidly growing communities. Mr. George Amoah, the Regional General Manager for ECG Ashanti West, emphasized that the upgrades are necessary to stabilize local supply and reduce outages linked to transformer overloading.
Amoah detailed that each transformer has a defined capacity and a maximum load it can safely carry. When transformers are detected to be nearing full capacity or operating above 70 percent, they are upgraded to higher ratings, such as from 100kVA to 200kVA, or 200kVA to 315kVA, as needed.
The ECG further noted that these upgrades coincide with the extension of high-tension and low-voltage lines, costing GHS10.94 million. These interventions are expected to reduce system losses, improve voltage stability, and enhance the reliability of electricity supply in the affected areas.
In a related statement, Mr. Emmanuel Osei Amoako, the Regional Engineer, highlighted the critical nature of these investments in meeting the rising demand driven by urban growth. The ECG has also installed 36 additional transformers to replace faulty units in various locations, including Twedie, Patasi Police Depot, Afia Kobi S SHS, and Denkyemuoso.
Additionally, further installations have been approved as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen distribution networks and improve service delivery. The company has urged the public to refrain from vandalism and illegal interference with its infrastructure, encouraging residents to report any suspicious activities that could impact network performance.