ECG to Tackle Persistent Power Outages in Ashanti Region

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced plans to install more than 900 transformers across the Ashanti Region by the end of 2026 as part of efforts to address ongoing power supply challenges.

The initiative forms part of a broader GHS 3.46 billion investment program aimed at strengthening the country’s electricity distribution network. The program includes the deployment of about 2,500 distribution transformers nationwide to ease pressure on ageing and overloaded infrastructure.

Speaking in an interview, the Ashanti West Public Relations Officer of ECG, Benjamin Obeng Antwi, disclosed that each of the three operational units in the region is expected to install at least 300 transformers before the close of the year.

“We’ve started these projects at Bantama, another at Kpakala in Abuakwa, also Ejisu and Ampabame. Each region intends to install not less than 300 transformers before the year ends,” he said.

Despite the planned upgrades, several parts of the Ashanti Region, particularly in and around Kumasi, continue to experience erratic power supply. The situation has affected both households and businesses, with operators in sectors such as hairdressing, food storage, and retail reporting disruptions to their daily activities.

Mr. Obeng Antwi noted that ECG has earmarked nine major projects in the region to improve electricity distribution and reliability. “In the Ashanti Region, we have nine projects. These are critical infrastructure which, when completed, will significantly boost power supply,” he stated.

Among the flagship projects is the construction of a sub-transmission line from Adoato to Offinso through Barekese. The project will involve upgrading existing conductors from 120 to 400 capacity and replacing outdated wood tower lines with more durable poles.

“We are upgrading that size from 120 to 400 and then from wood tower lines to wood poles. Once that project is done, it will boost power supply to customers within that area,” he explained.

Another key intervention is the construction of a direct transmission line from Anwomaso to the Airport Substation. Currently, power is routed through Achiase and Fawoade, a process described as inefficient and unnecessarily long.

“Ideally, from Anwomaso to Airport Roundabout is very short, but because we don’t have that line, whenever we want to transfer to the airport, we have to go through Achiase, Fawoade before it comes back. That is very far,” he said.

Additional upgrades are planned for the Kaase and Boankra enclaves, where conductor capacities will also be increased to improve supply reliability across the region.