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.

A group of men are gathered under a pavilion for a community meeting, seated on blue plastic chairs. The attendees, including several elders in traditional Smocks, appear to be engaged in a discussion regarding local infrastructure and road construction in Tumu.
energy and infrastructure|

Tumu Landlord Issues Two-Week Relocation Ultimatum to Residents to Facilitate Ghana-Burkina Faso Road Project

In a decisive move to accelerate infrastructure development in the Sissala East Municipality, the Tumu landlord and sectional heads have issued a two-week ultimatum to residents and business owners along key thoroughfares to relocate. This directive is intended to clear road reservations for an upcoming construction project designed to significantly enhance cross-border transportation and trade between Ghana and Burkina Faso. Landlord Baba Tommy Kanton, who announced the deadline, emphasized that the development of the road network is a non-negotiable priority for the region's economic future. The infrastructure initiative has received strong backing from the highest levels of government, with Landlord Kanton specifically commending President John Mahama and the Member of Parliament for Sissala East, Isaah Mohammed Bataglia, for their commitment to the project. The directive primarily affects structures situated along the corridor extending from the Tumu roundabout toward Loe Road. Kanton urged the community to remain united and called for minimal political interference, insisting that the contractor must be allowed to work without being impeded by local disputes or partisan interests. While the community generally acknowledges the necessity of the road project, the ultimatum has sparked concerns among affected residents who face the imminent loss or relocation of their properties. Some residents have formally requested an extension to the 14-day window to better organize their transition; however, the landlord has firmly declined these requests, maintains that any delay would compromise the project's timeline. MP Isaah Mohammed Bataglia has assured the community that the project will proceed as planned while promising to facilitate as smooth a transition as possible for those impacted. This project represents a strategic investment in the Upper West Region's connectivity, positioning Tumu as a critical hub for international transit. By modernizing the link to Burkina Faso, the government aims to reduce travel times and lower the costs of cross-border commerce. As the two-week deadline approaches, local authorities continue to monitor the relocation process, signaling that the start of physical construction is imminent to ensure the region benefits from improved infrastructure and increased economic activity.

MCC and MiDA Explore New Energy Partnership to Strengthen Ghana’s Power Grid
energy and infrastructure|

MCC and MiDA Explore New Energy Partnership to Strengthen Ghana’s Power Grid

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has signaled a potential return to large-scale investment in Ghana's energy sector following high-level discussions with the Millennium Development Authority (MiDA) in New York. This strategic engagement marks a significant step toward reviving the development partnership between the U.S. government agency and Ghana, focusing on critical infrastructure needs. The talks centered on building upon previous successes while addressing current challenges in the nation's power sector, aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth through reliable energy access. A primary focus of the deliberations is the strengthening of Ghana’s electricity grid and the promotion of regional power integration. These discussions follow the conclusion of the $498.2 million Ghana Power Compact in June 2022, an initiative that laid the groundwork for significant reforms and infrastructure upgrades. By exploring a new chapter of cooperation, both the MCC and MiDA aim to enhance the reliability of the national power supply, which remains a cornerstone for industrialization and private sector expansion. The MCC’s assessment of Ghana’s past investments and the successful implementation of previous reforms will be a decisive factor in determining the scope of future funding opportunities. The New York meeting emphasized that a successful partnership would not only provide direct financial support but also serve as a catalyst for attracting further private U.S. investment into the Ghanaian economy. MiDA’s role in managing these high-stakes developmental projects continues to be pivotal as the nation seeks to leverage international partnerships to modernize its energy landscape. As the current administration under President John Mahama continues to prioritize energy security and infrastructure resilience, the potential for a new MCC compact offers a strategic opportunity for the country. The next steps in this revived partnership will involve rigorous evaluations of Ghana's policy environment and the sustained performance of its utility institutions. If finalized, this renewed collaboration could provide the necessary capital and technical expertise to further transform Ghana into a regional energy hub, ensuring a stable and efficient power sector for the future.

A photograph of a paved road in a Ghanaian community featuring electricity infrastructure including a wooden utility pole with a transformer and overhead power lines. The scene is surrounded by lush green vegetation and simple residential structures, representing rural infrastructure development.
energy and infrastructure|

Government Launches Turnkey Electrification Project to Connect 90 Communities in Oti Region

The Ghanaian government has officially launched the Turnkey Electrification Project under the Rural Electricity Acceleration and Urban Intensification Initiative (REIP), targeting 90 communities across the Oti Region. This initiative, which aligns with President John Mahama’s directive to expand rural energy access, aims to bridge the development gap between urban and rural areas. Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Energy Richard Gyan-Mensah emphasized that the project is designed to provide stable power to previously underserved communities while simultaneously reinforcing existing urban grids to improve service reliability and meet the growing demand for electricity. The rollout in the Oti Region is part of a broader four-year national strategy to extend electricity to all 16 regions of Ghana. For the current phase, the government is prioritizing the Oti, Volta, Savannah, and North East regions to address critical infrastructure deficits. Technical specifications for the project include the installation of 2,000 distribution transformers to stabilize power flow and the deployment of approximately 23,000 solar streetlights to enhance security and visibility on highways and within local communities. Furthermore, the Deputy Minister indicated that the government is exploring mini-grid systems as a viable solution for remote or island communities where connection to the national grid may be technically challenging. Regional leadership and local stakeholders have hailed the project as a catalyst for economic transformation. Oti Regional Minister John Kwadwo Gyapong noted that reliable electricity is fundamental to the region's socio-economic advancement, particularly in improving service delivery at health facilities and educational institutions. The initiative is being executed in collaboration with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo). Traditional and religious leaders present at the ceremony expressed their gratitude, noting that the introduction of power would stimulate small-scale industries and improve the general quality of life for residents who have long awaited such modern infrastructure. As the project moves into its implementation phase, government officials have urged local communities to take ownership of the infrastructure by protecting equipment from vandalism and theft. The success of the REIP depends on collaborative efforts between the central government, local assemblies, and the beneficiary communities to ensure the long-term sustainability of the power supply. With the project set to expand across the nation over the next few years, the government remains focused on its goal of achieving near-universal electricity access, thereby fostering an environment conducive to industrialization and poverty reduction across Ghana's rural heartlands.

Dignitaries and some participants after the event. Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
energy and infrastructure|

Energy Ministry Outlines $500 Billion Roadmap to Achieve Net-Zero Economy by 2070

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has revealed that Ghana will require approximately $500 billion to successfully transition to a net-zero economy by the year 2070. Speaking at a national climate change conference in Accra organized by ActionAid Ghana, Seth Mahu, a Technical Advisor to the Minister, emphasized that achieving this ambitious target hinges on robust collaboration between the government, civil society, financial institutions, and the private sector. This massive financial requirement reflects the scale of the infrastructure and policy shifts needed to decarbonize the national economy and ensure environmental sustainability over the coming decades. Ghana’s current renewable energy capacity stands at 342.5 Megawatts (MW), which accounts for approximately 6% of the national energy mix. To bridge the gap toward net-zero, the government has established a roadmap with specific incremental milestones, targeting a 10% renewable energy capacity by 2030 and scaling up to 20% by 2070. Mr. Mahu stressed that the transition must be comprehensive and inclusive, moving beyond the power sector to integrate critical areas such as agriculture, water resources, and transportation. This multi-sectoral approach is designed to ensure that the shift to green energy supports broader economic stability and equitable growth. Key stakeholders have echoed the call for a unified, economy-wide strategy to manage the transition. Dr. Charles Ofori from the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) highlighted the necessity of a holistic perspective to ensure that no sector is left behind as the nation moves away from carbon-intensive practices. Similarly, John Nkaw, Country Director for ActionAid Ghana, underscored the importance of establishing sustainable funding mechanisms and clear policy recommendations to guide both private and public investments. These experts agree that transparency and equity must remain at the forefront of Ghana's climate policy formulation. As the government under President John Mahama continues to develop these long-term energy strategies, the focus remains on creating policies that protect vulnerable populations while attracting the necessary global and local capital. The $500 billion roadmap serves as both a significant challenge and an invitation for partners to invest in Ghana’s green future. The ultimate success of the 2070 net-zero goal will depend on the effective implementation of these frameworks to modernize the nation’s infrastructure and secure long-term energy sovereignty.

A man in a navy blue suit speaks at a podium during a presentation at Alisa Hotels. Behind him, a screen displays an image of industrial gas flaring towers, likely illustrating the discussion on methane emissions and energy infrastructure in Ghana.
energy and infrastructure|

Dr. Kwame Sarkodie Warns Ghana Must Curb Methane Emissions to Secure European Gas Market Access

Dr. Kwame Sarkodie, a petroleum engineering expert from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has warned that Ghana risks losing access to European gas export markets if it fails to enhance methane emission controls and eliminate routine gas flaring. Speaking at a Technical Consultative Workshop organized by the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC), Dr. Sarkodie emphasized that the European Union is implementing increasingly stringent regulations that require importers to prove compliance with high-level monitoring standards. Without urgent action, Ghana’s energy sector could face significant barriers to trade in one of its most critical international markets. The economic consequences of current flaring practices are already severe, with reports indicating that Ghana flared approximately 28.5 million units of gas over a one-year period. This represents roughly 10.4% of the country's raw production and translates to a lost potential energy value of approximately $170 million. Dr. Sarkodie argued that treating the elimination of routine flaring as both an environmental and economic priority is essential to prevent further resource waste and to maintain the country's appeal to international investors who are increasingly focused on green energy standards. The regulatory pressure is mounting as the EU’s new methane regulations are set to impact global supply chains significantly by 2027. To stay ahead of these requirements, the Petroleum Commission has established a target to eliminate routine flaring by 2026. However, Dr. Sarkodie stressed that meeting this deadline requires immediate improvements in emissions monitoring systems and stricter enforcement of existing sector regulations to ensure that Ghana remains competitive in the evolving global landscape. Ultimately, aligning with international environmental standards is seen as vital for the long-term sustainability of Ghana's oil and gas industry. By adopting more sophisticated monitoring technologies and adhering to zero-routine flaring policies, the nation can protect its market share and secure the investments necessary for future growth. Dr. Sarkodie urged stakeholders to view these regulatory changes not just as hurdles, but as an opportunity to modernize the energy sector and affirm Ghana's commitment to responsible resource management.

energy and infrastructure|

President Mahama to Break Ground on 40,000-Seater FIFA-Standard Stadium in Sunyani

President John Dramani Mahama is set to officially initiate the construction of a new 40,000-seater FIFA-standard stadium in Sunyani, the capital of the Bono Region. The project, which is scheduled for a formal sod-cutting ceremony in October 2026, marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to modernize sports infrastructure across the country. By meeting international FIFA requirements, the facility will not only accommodate domestic league matches but also position Ghana to host high-profile international tournaments and continental championships. The development of this high-capacity stadium is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic revitalization in the Bono Region. During the construction phase, the project will generate numerous local employment opportunities and stimulate the regional supply chain for building materials and services. Once completed, the stadium will function as a multipurpose venue, supporting a variety of athletic disciplines and community events, thereby addressing the long-standing need for a modern sporting hub in the middle belt of Ghana. The official ceremony in October 2026 is anticipated to reveal comprehensive project details, including the specific construction timelines and the architectural firms involved in the design. This initiative follows the Mahama administration's broader strategy to integrate sports development with national infrastructure growth, ensuring that all regions benefit from modern public facilities. As the government prepares for the launch, sports enthusiasts and local leaders in Sunyani have expressed optimism regarding the transformative impact the stadium will have on the nation's athletic landscape.

energy and infrastructure|

KMA Chief Executive Issues Ultimatum to Kejetia Market Traders Over Outstanding Stall Premiums

The Chief Executive of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, has issued a stern directive to traders at the Kejetia Market, urging them to settle outstanding premium payments for their stalls or face eviction. Traders have been given until December 31, 2026, to clear their debts, with the KMA warning that failure to meet this deadline will result in the forfeiture of their trading spaces. This move is part of a broader effort by the assembly to stabilize the financial health of the market project and ensure the continuity of its ambitious redevelopment plans. The delay in these premium payments has had a direct impact on the funding structure for the market's multi-phase redevelopment. According to the KMA, the timely collection of these funds is critical for servicing financial obligations and maintaining the momentum of construction. The redevelopment project has been supported by significant international investment, including a  248 million loan specifically contracted to facilitate Phase Two. Officials noted that the project is at a pivotal stage, with work on Phase Two expected to resume in October 2023 following previous delays. In addition to the collection of current debts, the KMA Chief Executive cautioned traders against making unauthorized pre-payments for stalls in future phases of the market. This warning aims to prevent financial irregularities and ensure that the allocation process remains transparent and managed through official channels. The assembly emphasized that addressing these key operational and financial concerns is paramount to the overall success of the project, which serves as a central economic hub for Kumasi and the wider Ashanti Region. As the December 2026 deadline approaches, the KMA is expected to intensify its engagement with the market's trading community to facilitate payment plans and resolve outstanding disputes. The successful completion of the Kejetia Market redevelopment is seen as a cornerstone of Kumasi’s modern infrastructure strategy, intended to provide a safer, more organized environment for thousands of vendors and shoppers. The assembly's firm stance underscores the government's commitment to protecting public investments and ensuring that critical infrastructure projects remain viable and self-sustaining.

energy and infrastructure|

ECG Announces Three-Day Planned Power Outages for Maintenance in Tema Region

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has officially scheduled a series of planned power outages across various sectors of the Tema Region to facilitate essential maintenance work on the power grid. These interruptions are set to occur over a three-day period, beginning Sunday, September 29, and concluding on Tuesday, October 1. According to the utility provider, the outages will take place daily between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., affecting a wide array of residential, commercial, and industrial hubs within the region. The maintenance schedule is divided by geographical zones to manage the impact on consumers. On the first day, September 29, neighborhoods such as Community 18, Manet Estate, Coastal Estate, and Klagon, along with institutions like Manhean SHS and Naval Quarters, will experience disruptions. The outages on this day also extend to areas including Kasapreko Packaging, Bankuman, and the Under Bridge area. On September 30, the scope shifts toward the outskirts and coastal areas, including Golf City, Sakumono Village, and the tourism-heavy Ada district, encompassing Big Ada, Ada Foah, and resorts like Aqua Safari and Treasure Island. Other affected areas on Monday include Kasseh, Sege, and the Regional Maritime University (RMU) vicinity. The final day of the scheduled works, October 1, will target areas including Devtraco, Shalom Spot, and the EMEF Estate. Residents and businesses in Gbetsile, Bethlehem, and Tulaku are also advised to prepare for the seven-hour window of inactivity. Industrial and healthcare facilities such as Danadams and Green Hill Hospital are among the notable locations listed for this final phase. The ECG has expressed regret for the inconvenience these necessary upgrades may cause, emphasizing that the maintenance is vital for ensuring the long-term reliability of the power supply in the Tema enclave. These maintenance efforts come at a time when the government, under President John Mahama, is prioritizing the stabilization and modernization of Ghana's energy infrastructure. By conducting these periodic upgrades, the ECG aims to prevent unsolicited faults and improve the overall efficiency of the distribution network. Customers in the affected zones are encouraged to plan their daily activities around the 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. window to mitigate the impact of the outages on their productivity and domestic operations.

Ministry of Energy Launches Turnkey Project to Electrify 90 Communities in Oti Region
energy and infrastructure|

Ministry of Energy Launches Turnkey Project to Electrify 90 Communities in Oti Region

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has officially launched a major Turnkey Electrification Project in the Oti Region, marking a significant milestone in Ghana's journey toward universal electricity access. This initiative is strategically designed to connect 90 communities across nine districts to the national power grid, addressing a critical infrastructure gap in one of the nation's newest administrative regions. By targeting previously unserviced areas, the project aligns with the broader national agenda to ensure that rural populations are fully integrated into the country's energy transition and socio-economic development plans. The scope of the project is comprehensive, focusing not only on extending power lines to remote areas but also on strengthening and enhancing existing networks within the region. This dual approach is intended to provide a stable energy backbone that can support small-scale industries and agricultural processing, which are vital to the Oti Region's economy. By improving the reliability of the current grid infrastructure, the ministry aims to reduce power fluctuations and provide a consistent supply of electricity that will foster local entrepreneurship and economic resilience. From a socio-economic standpoint, the arrival of electricity is expected to have a transformative impact on essential public services, particularly in the sectors of education and healthcare. With a reliable power supply, schools in the 90 beneficiary communities will be able to utilize modern digital learning tools, while healthcare facilities can improve their storage of temperature-sensitive medications and enhance emergency response capabilities. This rollout forms a key part of the current infrastructure strategy under President John Mahama, which prioritizes decentralized development and the creation of economic opportunities in rural enclaves. As the implementation of the Turnkey Electrification Project commences, the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating sustainable energy solutions while expanding the national grid. The successful completion of this project is expected to significantly improve the standard of living for thousands of residents and serve as a model for future rural electrification efforts across the country. Government officials have indicated that they will maintain strict oversight of the construction phases to ensure that technical standards are met and that the project is delivered in a timely manner.

Dignitaries and some participants after the event. Picture: EDNA SALVO KOTEY
energy and infrastructure|

Energy Ministry Outlines $500 Billion Roadmap for Ghana's Net-Zero Transition by 2070

The Ghanaian government has identified a massive financial requirement of approximately $500 billion to transition the nation to a net-zero economy by 2070. Speaking at a national climate change conference in Accra, Seth Mahu, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, underscored that achieving this ambitious target will require unprecedented cooperation between the state, financial institutions, the private sector, and civil society. The transition is framed not just as an environmental necessity but as a comprehensive shift in the nation's economic and infrastructural landscape. The roadmap for this transition sets specific benchmarks for renewable energy integration to modernize the national power grid. Currently, Ghana’s renewable energy capacity stands at 342.5 MW, representing roughly 6% of the national energy mix. The government aims to increase this capacity to 10% by 2030, with a long-term goal of reaching 20% by 2070. Mr. Mahu emphasized that the shift must extend beyond power generation to include critical sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and water management. To ensure success, he advocated for equitable policies that distribute the benefits and burdens of the green transition fairly across the population. The call for a unified approach was echoed by experts from the energy and non-profit sectors during the conference, which was organized by ActionAid Ghana. Dr. Charles Ofori from the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) highlighted the necessity of an economy-wide strategy, arguing that the transition cannot be isolated to the energy sector alone. Similarly, John Nkaw of ActionAid Ghana stressed the urgency of securing sustainable funding and establishing clear policy recommendations to guide the process. These stakeholders agree that while the $500 billion price tag is steep, the potential for new "green" economic opportunities makes the investment essential for Ghana's long-term stability. As Ghana moves forward with its Energy Transition and Investment Plan, the primary challenge remains bridging the significant funding gap through international and domestic partnerships. The success of this 2070 vision will ultimately depend on the nation's ability to attract international climate finance and private investment while maintaining a policy environment that encourages innovation. Moving forward, the government intends to refine its roadmap to ensure that the transition supports sustainable development goals without compromising the country's economic growth.

Ghana to sign agreement to build biggest thermal plant (1200MV) before end of 2026 - Mahama
energy and infrastructure|

President John Mahama Announces Plans for Ghana's Largest 1,200MW Thermal Power Plant by End of 2026

President John Mahama has announced that Ghana is set to sign a landmark agreement for the construction of a 1,200-megawatt gas-fired thermal power plant before the close of 2026. Speaking at a town hall meeting on September 25, 2026, the President detailed that this facility will represent the largest power plant in the country's history. The initiative marks a significant milestone in the administration's efforts to enhance national energy security and cater to the growing industrial and residential demand for electricity across the country. The project serves as a central component of a comprehensive strategy to navigate the global energy transition while addressing longstanding challenges within Ghana's domestic energy sector. President Mahama emphasized that the government is focused on reducing energy-related debts and undertaking a major reorganization of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). These reforms aim to prioritize payments to independent power producers, ensuring the financial sustainability of the sector and preventing the recurrence of power supply disruptions that have historically hampered economic productivity. Furthermore, the President highlighted a significant recovery in investor confidence within the oil and gas sector, which is critical for securing the necessary fuel supply for the new thermal plant. By stabilizing the energy sector and ensuring a reliable power supply, the administration aims to foster a more predictable economic environment. President Mahama reiterated that a stable currency and robust energy infrastructure are the twin pillars required to drive sustained economic growth and attract further foreign direct investment into Ghana's industrial landscape.

GNPC Delivers 950,000 Barrels of Sankofa Crude to TOR to Bolster Ghana’s Domestic Refining Capacity
energy and infrastructure|

GNPC Delivers 950,000 Barrels of Sankofa Crude to TOR to Bolster Ghana’s Domestic Refining Capacity

The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has delivered approximately 950,000 barrels of Sankofa crude oil to the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), a move designed to deepen domestic refining and strengthen the nation’s petroleum value chain. The delivery, which arrived aboard the vessel Sonangol Cazenga, marks a critical step in linking upstream production with downstream refining capabilities. This arrangement reflects the government's commitment to enhancing local value retention and ensuring that Ghana’s oil resources provide maximum benefit to the domestic economy. GNPC Chief Executive Kwame Ntow Amoah and TOR Managing Director Edmond Kombat led the inspection of the delivery, highlighting the commercial nature of the partnership. Unlike previous arrangements that often led to mounting debt, this transaction was structured as a fully paid commercial deal, ensuring no additional financial liability for GNPC. Mr. Amoah emphasized that establishing a reliable domestic market for Sankofa crude is vital for the corporation’s supply chain efficiency and the refinery’s operational stability. The Sankofa crude is considered highly compatible with TOR’s refining infrastructure, making it an ideal choice for the refinery’s current revitalization efforts. Beyond the immediate crude supply, GNPC and TOR are exploring expanded cooperation, including the potential supply of natural gas to support the refinery’s energy needs. Such integration is expected to reduce operational costs and improve the overall sustainability of the facility as it seeks to meet a greater portion of the country's fuel demand. This milestone comes as President John Mahama’s administration continues to prioritize energy security and industrial growth. By fostering closer ties between GNPC and TOR, the government aims to rebuild the refinery’s capacity and reduce the nation’s dependence on imported refined products. The successful delivery of the Sankofa crude serves as a blueprint for future collaborations intended to keep petroleum wealth within Ghana and stimulate broader economic development.