Sunday, 19 October

ECG saves $300 million after review of non-performing contracts– Energy Minister

Business
John Abdulai Jinapor
The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Mr John Abdulai Jinapor (MP), has revealed that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has saved the country over US$300 million through the termination of non-performing and overpriced contracts following a comprehensive review exercise.

Speaking during a visit to ECG headquarters, the Minister commended the company’s leadership and staff for their dedication to improving efficiency and service delivery despite operational challenges.

“When this administration took office, we inherited a very difficult situation in the power sector — weak procurement systems, poor revenue collection, and a sector debt exceeding GHS 80 billion,” he said.

He disclosed that out of 347 contracts reviewed, 202 were terminated, leading to significant cost savings.

More than 100 additional contracts are still under review to ensure they deliver value for money and align with ECG’s operational goals.

Mr. Jinapor noted that Ghana’s power supply has seen remarkable improvement, with stable and reliable electricity across the country.

“The lights are on — and with the work we’re doing, they will continue to stay on.

This reliability didn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of hard work and better coordination across the sector,” he stated.

Highlighting ECG’s financial turnaround, the Minister announced that the company recorded its highest-ever monthly revenue in June 2025, totalling GHS 1.678 billion, a 47.3% increase from June 2024.

Consequently, ECG has enhanced its ability to meet financial obligations to key players, including Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

Payments to the energy sector in 2025 have reached US$1.47 billion, up from US$1.35 billion in 2024.

Mr. Jinapor also addressed the issue of over 2,600 uncleared energy-sector containers at the ports.

He said a taskforce led by the Chief of Staff traced the containers, with 1,344 already evacuated and 1,280 awaiting clearance.

He stressed that the matter has moved beyond administrative review and is now under security investigation and prosecution.

“The government will not shield anyone found to have abused public trust.

Every single cedi must be accounted for,” he declared.

The Minister issued a strong warning to ECG staff engaged in corruption, unauthorised meter sales, revenue diversion, or sabotage, stating that such conduct would no longer be tolerated.

“Those found culpable will face immediate administrative action, criminal investigation, termination, and prosecution,” he warned.

“There will be no shielding, no special treatment, and no tolerance for behaviour that undermines the national interest.”

He, however, assured honest and hardworking staff of the government’s protection and encouraged them to report wrongdoing through official channels.

Mr. Jinapor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening transparency, accountability, and efficiency within the power sector.

“When ECG is strong, Ghana is strong. Let’s work together not just to keep the lights on, but to power a brighter future for all,” he concluded.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah