Accra: Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has directed the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) to hold a joint press conference to address the ongoing power outages and low voltage issues affecting the Volta Region. The directive comes after numerous complaints from residents about the frequent disruptions and their impact on daily life.

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Gunu emphasized the severe consequences of the power situation, which is not only hindering businesses but also affecting households and personal relationships. During an unannounced visit to the ECG Regional Office in Ho and GRIDCo’s installation at Akosombo, he gathered first-hand accounts of the electricity issues plaguing the region.

Mr Gunu met with the Volta Regional General Manager of ECG, Ms. Christina Jatoe-Kaleo, and other key staff to express the frustrations of the residents. He criticized the lack of communication and transparency from the electricity providers. ‘People are angry, appliances are being damaged, and there’s no proper communication from your end,’ he stated, urging ECG to be more open about the challenges they face.

In response, Ms Jatoe-Kaleo clarified that the issues primarily arise from supply challenges with GRIDCo. She denied any sabotage and explained that ECG also suffers revenue losses during outages. ‘Most problems originate from GRIDCo. If the power they provide is unstable or low voltage, there is little we can do,’ she explained.

The Minister, unsatisfied with the explanations, proceeded to GRIDCo’s office where he discussed the matter with Mr Job Azianku, the Area Manager. Mr Azianku acknowledged some responsibility for the low voltage and fluctuations but indicated that not all issues could be attributed to GRIDCo.

Mr Gunu has ordered both ECG and GRIDCo to hold a joint press conference to address the causes of the power challenges, the measures being taken to resolve them, and the expected duration of these issues. ‘The people of Volta Region deserve clarity,’ he asserted, emphasizing the importance of economic and social stability.

Additionally, the Minister suggested establishing a GRIDCo office in Ho to facilitate easier engagement with stakeholders. His intervention has been welcomed by residents and business owners, who hope that the joint press conference will provide concrete answers and timelines for resolving the power issues.