ECG tackles outages, vegetation challenges in Western Region

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is taking proactive steps to improve power supply reliability in the Western Region, particularly in the Amenfi areas, which have been plagued by persistent power challenges. The company's commitment to addressing these issues was evident during a recent media tour of the Ketan Bulk Supply Point in Takoradi.

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The company was constructing a transmission line from the Prestea BSP to help offload excess demand on the Bogoso BSP and resolve persistent power challenges in communities such as Asankrangwa and its surrounding areas.

Mr. Emmanuel J. Ofori, the Western Regional General Manager of ECG, highlighted the critical need to alleviate overloading at the Bogoso Bulk Supply Point. The ongoing construction of a transmission line from the Prestea BSP is a significant undertaking aimed at offloading excess demand and bringing much-needed relief to communities such as Asankrangwa, which have been disproportionately affected.

Beyond infrastructure development, ECG is diligently working to mitigate operational challenges. Vegetation, particularly bamboo, has been identified as a major threat to power lines, especially during the rainy season. The company's annual efforts to clear vegetation along transmission corridors are crucial for minimizing disruptions caused by falling trees and bamboo onto power lines, which trigger automatic system shutdowns.

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Dense vegetation, particularly bamboo, had been a significant cause of recent outages, especially during the rainy season, as strong winds often caused trees and bamboo to fall onto power lines, leading to system trips.

Mr. Ofori also stressed the importance of security and the safety of ECG personnel, calling for enhanced collaboration with traditional leaders, landowners, and local communities. The planned establishment of a centralized control system using SCADA technology promises to further enhance grid management and operational efficiency across the region. These initiatives underscore ECG's dedication to ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for all its customers.

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Security concerns and the safety of ECG personnel remained critical challenges, and called for stronger collaboration with chiefs, landowners and local communities.