The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) says that a large portion of its distribution infrastructure is operating beyond safe capacity, contributing to frequent power supply interruptions across the country.
Managing Director Kwame Kpekpena said transformers, cables, and substations within the network are increasingly overloaded, exceeding their designed thermal limits due to mounting demand.
Addressing a press conference in Accra, he explained that rapid urbanisation and population growth have significantly increased pressure on the power distribution system, which has not been upgraded at the same pace.
“A significant portion of ECG’s distribution network has exceeded its designed thermal limits, leading to widespread overloading especially during peak periods. This results in frequent faults, low voltage, and supply interruptions,” he stated.
Mr Kpekpena indicated that the impact of the strain is evident in the rising number of damaged distribution transformers. ECG recorded 834 transformer failures in 2023, which increased to 1,064 in 2024.
However, only about 300 of those units had been replaced by 2025, forcing the company to shift customers onto nearby transformers and further intensify the overload problem.
To address the situation, ECG has initiated a comprehensive investment programme valued at GHS 3.46 billion aimed at upgrading and stabilising the network.
As part of immediate interventions estimated at GHS 278 million, the company plans to install 2,500 new distribution transformers, replace deteriorated utility poles under its “Operation Keep the Lights On” initiative, and rehabilitate damaged substations.
In the short to medium-term, ECG will undertake projects worth GHS 1.2 billion, including the construction of new substations, reinforcement of regional power systems, and replacement of undersized conductors.
Mr Kpekpena attributed the current challenges to years of underinvestment and weak planning in the distribution segment of the power sector, despite improvements in electricity generation and transmission.
He noted that ageing infrastructure, inadequate maintenance practices, and limited adoption of modern technologies have contributed to inefficiencies, technical losses, and unreliable power supply.
Despite the challenges, the ECG boss assured the public of the company’s commitment to restoring stability and improving service delivery.
“We have a clear plan and timetable, and we are deploying all available resources to ensure execution,” he said.
He added that stricter monitoring and reporting systems would be introduced to enhance accountability and track the progress of ongoing projects.
Mr Kpekpena also apologised to customers for the persistent outages and pledged that ECG would improve communication and response times in addressing faults.
