WAPCo Begins Mandatory Gas Pipeline Safety Tests, Assures Stable Power Supply
The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo) has begun scheduled safety and integrity tests on its gas transportation infrastructure across Ghana, Togo, Benin and Nigeria, as part of efforts to safeguard the long-term reliability of the regional energy system.
In a statement, the company said the exercise involves Emergency Shutdown (ESD) and High Integrity Pressure Protection System (HIPPS) tests at selected facilities between January 18 and 31, 2026. “As part of its routine maintenance program, WAPCo will conduct scheduled Emergency Shutdown and High Integrity Pressure Protection System tests at its facilities in Ghana, Togo, Benin and Nigeria,” the statement said.
WAPCo explained that the tests are mandatory under the regulatory framework of the West African Gas Pipeline Authority and are not discretionary. “These tests are mandated under the West African Gas Pipeline Authority regulations and planned collaboratively with key stakeholders in the four countries,” the company noted.
According to WAPCo, the testing regime follows industry best practices designed to protect critical energy infrastructure. The company stressed that the ESD and HIPPS systems are essential safety mechanisms that automatically shut down gas flow or regulate pressure when abnormal conditions are detected, helping to prevent accidents and equipment failure.
WAPCo assured stakeholders that the program has been structured to minimise disruptions, noting that each test will last no more than nine hours. “Each test is scheduled to last for a maximum duration of nine hours, and all relevant stakeholders have been informed in advance to ensure minimal operational disruption,” the company said.
In Ghana, the scheduled tests are expected to temporarily interrupt gas supply to thermal power plants in the Tema enclave. The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition confirmed it has been notified of the maintenance works and acknowledged that gas flow to Tema will be affected. “As a result, there will be a temporary interruption in gas supply to thermal power plants located in Tema during this period,” the Ministry stated.
Despite the interruption, authorities have reassured the public that electricity supply will remain stable. The Ministry said alternative fuel arrangements have been put in place to ensure continuity of power generation. “The public is assured that this maintenance activity is essential, and adequate alternative fuel arrangements have been made to maintain a stable electricity supply,” the Ministry said.
Both WAPCo and government authorities appealed for public understanding, stressing that the short-term inconvenience is outweighed by the long-term benefits of a safer and more reliable regional gas pipeline.
