Accra: Mr John Abdulai Jinapor, the Energy Minister-designate, has indicated the Government's intentions to merge the Volta River Authority (VRA) and the Bui Power Authority to streamline operations and enhance efficiency in the power sector. During his appearance before the Appointments Committee of Parliament in Accra, Mr Jinapor stated that if approved, he would engage with the management teams of both power institutions to ensure that the decision does not disrupt power supply in the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Jinapor expressed concerns about inefficiencies in the power sector, citing that approximately three million meters belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) were dysfunctional. He called for immediate measures to replace these meters, highlighting that their malfunction poses a significant challenge to effective revenue collection for the utility company. He emphasized the necessity for the ECG to replace about 2.9 million meters as part of efforts to improve revenue generation, explaining that out of the 5.2 million meters in the system, approximately three million were not functioning properly, contributing to revenue shortfalls.
Mr Jinapor proposed phasing out postpaid meters and introducing smart metering technology as a solution to enhance the company's revenue drive. He suggested making meters available for direct purchase by consumers, with installation handled by licensed technicians. He also mentioned the integration of mobile money by the ECG, which allows customers to activate their meters through a code-based system. He pointed out that making meters readily available and utilizing economies of scale would significantly benefit consumers.
Addressing the energy sector debt, Mr Jinapor revealed that the energy debt had escalated to three billion dollars as of January 12, 2025, from $2.1 billion in August 2017. The debt has accumulated due to unresolved payments to Independent Power Producers and other unfulfilled payment commitments. He also noted the low investment in the energy sector and hinted at plans to lead a delegation to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, aiming to attract investments into the sector.
When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave as Minister, Mr Jinapor expressed his desire to be remembered as a disciplined, hardworking, humble, and committed young energy minister dedicated to revamping the energy sector.
