The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has dismissed calls for a load-shedding timetable amidst an impending three-week power outage, citing uncertainty in the extent and duration of the power cuts.
The outage, announced by ECG and GRIDCo, is attributed to a gas supply shortage from neighboring Nigeria.
While businesses and individuals alike are expressing concern over the impact on their operations, ECG’s Deputy Managing Director, Ing. Kwadwo Obeng, has maintained that a timetable may not be accurate due to potential unforeseen faults and maintenance works.
“We’re collaborating with local manufacturers…there’s more certainty in the amount that needs to be shed, then the utilities can also plan,” explained Ing. Obeng at a public forum addressing power sector challenges.
“Without knowing the quantum [of power to be shed], how do you even prepare the schedule? There are several factors, having known the quantum, you need to know the duration, there’s an off-peak period, peak period.”
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Small businesses, like barbers and tailors, have voiced their concerns, highlighting the need for a timetable to help them plan their operations during the power cuts.
“There is nothing we can do. It’s only God that we are praying to save us from this,” expressed one barber, lamenting the lack of a generator.
“If there’s no light, how can I work? And if there is no work, how do you expect me to eat? Or solve my problems?”
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While acknowledging the challenges, ECG has stressed its collaboration with various stakeholders to mitigate the impact of the power cuts.
However, the absence of a load-shedding timetable leaves businesses and individuals facing uncertainty and potential disruptions to their daily lives.