AfrElec: Ghana’s power crisis eases as 560-MW Sunon Asogli plant resumes operations

Sunon Asogli Power Ghana Ltd has resumed operations at its 560-MW power plant following a government-backed emergency funding intervention, alleviating a power supply strain that disrupted electricity across the country.

The plant, which was shut down due to financial difficulties, came back online on November 25. This marked a significant step towards stabilising Ghana’s energy sector, Joy News reported.

In a statement, the company expressed its gratitude to the country's finance minister and energy minister for facilitating the release of emergency funds to address the financial challenges that forced the shutdown.

“We would like to commend the Vice President [Mahamudu Bawumia] for his intervention in ensuring the payment to us for our return to operation,” the company added.

The power producer disclosed that it submitted its final Restructuring Terms Sheet to the Ministry of Finance and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in August 2024. The company anticipates that the terms will soon be finalised and signed, creating a path for enhanced stability and reliability in the country’s energy sector.

“We are confident that a win-win solution that will ensure the stability and reliability of Ghana’s energy sector will be achieved,” the statement added.

Sunon Asogli urged ECG to uphold the financial obligations outlined in their Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), stressing the importance of timely payments to prevent further disruptions.

The resumption of the 560-MW plant is expected to significantly enhance electricity supply across Ghana, easing pressure on the national grid and reducing the likelihood of outages.

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