‘Dumsor’ crisis Looms: Implications for Ghana’s Upcoming Elections
Electricity Company of Ghana
Story by: Joyce Kpeglo
Ghana stands on the brink of a major power crisis as key energy producers significantly reduce supply, raising fears of nationwide blackouts just weeks before the December 7 general elections. This crisis not only threatens businesses and daily life but could also cast a shadow over the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) chances at the polls.
Major suppliers, including Karpowership Energy, AKSA Energy, and Cenit Energy Limited, have scaled down operations, with Amandi Energy and Karpowership already off the national grid. AKSA Energy has cut its supply drastically from 370MW to just 58MW, creating an estimated shortfall of 450MW. This shortfall threatens to plunge the nation back into the dreaded “dumsor” era of power outages.
A Political Time Bomb?
As the NPP seeks reelection, the timing of this crisis couldn’t be worse. Power cuts could undermine public confidence in the government’s ability to manage essential services, fueling discontent among voters. The memories of previous energy crises are still fresh, and any prolonged outages may be perceived as a sign of governmental failure, potentially swaying undecided voters.
Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, CEO of the Chamber of Independent Power Producers, warned last week that without immediate action to resolve unpaid debts to power producers, more shutdowns are imminent. Sunon Asogli Power has already ceased operations, blaming the Electricity Company of Ghana’s (ECG) unpaid debts, while the government attributes some shutdowns to maintenance.
The government attributes some shutdowns to routine maintenance, but skepticism remains high. Industry leaders and stakeholders are calling for immediate intervention to settle debts with IPPs and stabilize the power grid. Without swift action, the cascading effects of the power crisis could extend beyond the festive season, with far-reaching implications for both the economy and the political landscape.
As Ghanaians prepare to cast their votes, the government’s handling of this crisis may prove pivotal—not only in keeping the lights on but in determining the future of the NPP’s leadership.
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