Government pledges stable power supply to boost mining sector
The Government has assured mining companies of stable and reliable power supply to enhance productivity and drive sustainable economic growth.
This commitment was made by Energy and Green Transitions Minister, John Abu Jinapor, at the opening of the 18th West African Mining and Power Exposition Conference (WAMPEX) in Accra on Wednesday.
With over 5,000 delegates and 220 exhibitors from 30 countries attending, the three-day event focuses on ‘Driving sustainable investment opportunities in West Africa.’
Mr. Jinapor highlighted the critical role of the mining and energy sectors in global development and stressed that power fluctuations could disrupt production, safety, and profitability. He confirmed that power generation has been stable recently, and measures are underway to improve transmission efficiency.
To this end, Mr. Jinapor announced urgent approval for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to deploy 200 new transformers in major cities to boost power transmission and distribution.
He also revealed ongoing offshore drilling activities and policy efforts to provide regulatory certainty and predictability for power and petroleum investors.
Meanwhile, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah emphasized the importance of adapting mining practices to global energy transition and climate goals. He cited last year’s $1.2 billion foreign direct investment in mining as proof of growing investor confidence.
Ghana Chamber of Mines President Michael Edem Akafia called for sustainability to be central to mining operations, urging industry players to strengthen local supply chains and support the government’s new Gold Board.
The government’s power assurances come at a critical time as the mining sector seeks to expand efficiently while maintaining environmental responsibility.
