The Minister-designate for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has expressed his support for private sector involvement in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to enhance efficiency. He highlighted the need for any privatisation deal to be free from political interference to ensure its success.
During his vetting before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Monday, Jinapor underscored the importance of transparency and expertise in the process. He announced plans to establish a committee to develop a framework for the future of ECG.
“We intend to form a seven-member committee chaired by experts in technical, legal, and financial fields, as well as industry stakeholders and a consumer representative. Their task will be to create a framework based on best practices. Would a concession approach be effective, or would full privatisation be the better option? We will maintain a non-political stance,” Jinapor explained.
He further emphasized the need for transparency, openness, and honesty in creating the framework. Once public buy-in is secured, standards will be set using a Request for Proposal (RFP) and a competitive tender process. Jinapor made it clear that any private sector participation in ECG must involve a competitive tender process with a focus on local content inclusion. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be established to track progress and maintain clarity in the government’s intentions.
President John Dramani Mahama has also expressed his willingness to consider the privatisation of ECG, citing the company’s inefficiencies in revenue collection and substantial losses. Referring to ECG as the “sick man of the power sector,” President Mahama discussed the challenges faced by the energy sector during a meeting with representatives of Ghana’s Independent Power Producers.
The President reaffirmed his dedication to addressing these challenges and improving ECG’s operations. The government’s focus on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of ECG through private sector involvement underscores its commitment to ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply for the people of Ghana.
