Accra: The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is implementing targeted projects valued at over GHS4.2 million to tackle ongoing low voltage and reliability problems in Enchi and Mpohor, located in the Western North and Western Regions.
According to Ghana Web, Acting Managing Director of ECG, Ing. Kwame Kpekpena, stated that these interventions are designed to enhance power quality and stabilize supply in the affected areas. In Enchi, ECG has awarded a contract worth GHS2,040,853.43 to Messrs Possible Power Limited to restore a 10-kilometre 33kV link between Enchi and Dadieso. This link will receive power from the newly established Juaboso Bulk Supply Point (BSP).
Ing. Kpekpena explained that, upon completion, the total feeder length from the Juaboso BSP to Enchi will be approximately 89 kilometres, representing a significant improvement over the current supply setup. Currently, the Enchi District is supplied by a 33kV feeder from Esiama, which is about 147 kilometres long, making it susceptible to voltage drops and frequent supply issues. An alternative 122-kilometre feeder from Bogoso has also been inadequate due to low voltage caused by overloading on a Ghana Grid Company transformer at Bogoso.
The ongoing works in Enchi involve the installation of 29 treated poles, the stringing of over 21 kilometres of conductor, the installation of a 33kV GIS load isolator, and vegetation clearing across a 7.3-kilometre dense forest area. Ing. Kpekpena noted that all materials have been delivered to the site, but work is pending final approval from the Forestry Commission to proceed within the forest reserve. He also mentioned that stakeholder engagements are ongoing, with interim vegetation control measures being implemented to provide immediate relief to consumers.
In Mpohor, Ing. Kpekpena identified that power supply issues primarily arise from an incomplete network upgrade project initiated in 2016. The upgrade of Feeder C07 from 11kV to 33kV is approximately 70 percent complete, with observable improvements in sections that have been upgraded. However, the remaining 30 percent, which mainly involves transformer upgrades, remains crucial for full network optimization.
To address these issues, ECG is investing GHS2,163,192.15 to acquire 18 additional 33kV distribution transformers and four metering cubicles as a medium-term solution. As a long-term strategy, the company plans to construct about four kilometres of an alternative 33kV line to reduce feeder length, improve fault management, and enhance operational flexibility.
Ing. Kpekpena also revealed that illegal mining activities, known as 'galamsey', pose risks to power infrastructure within the Mpohor corridor. In response, ECG is conducting targeted risk assessments to manage hazards created by these activities and is engaging local authorities, traditional leaders, and security agencies to ensure safe access to the network. The company is also intensifying public education on the dangers illegal mining poses to electricity infrastructure and public safety.