The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has revealed that 50% of the total power losses recorded by the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) originate from the northern sector, with 70% of that figure concentrated in Tamale alone.
Speaking during a working visit to the region, Mr. Jinapor attributed the majority of these losses to widespread illegal connections.
“Illegal connections in Tamale are significantly above average. You may have a transformer designed to serve ten households, but due to these illegal connections, it’s now serving thirty. This causes system overload, frequent power tripping, and ultimately leads to unreliable electricity supply,” he explained.
The Minister called on residents, especially law-abiding citizens, to support NEDCo’s efforts to clamp down on power theft, stressing that such actions hurt everyone in the community.
He also appealed to the public to cooperate with NEDCo during its upcoming disconnection exercise, stressing that the operation would be carried out professionally and with safety as a priority.
“It’s in the people’s own interest to cooperate. NEDCo technicians are trained professionals. When unqualified individuals attempt to connect households to the grid, it can result in electrical fires and property damage,” Mr. Jinapor warned.
To support NEDCo’s revenue recovery efforts, the Minister proposed the introduction of flexible payment plans for indebted consumers.
“Some people owe GH₵ 20,000 to GH₵ 30,000. Insisting on full payment before reconnection may not be realistic. A payment plan, where portions of the debt are deducted as customers purchase electricity credit, could help recover revenue gradually,” he suggested.
He also assured NEDCo staff of their safety, stating that he had received strong assurances from the Ghana Police Service to provide security throughout the disconnection exercise. In addition, the Minister disclosed that he had engaged with traditional leaders and other key stakeholders ahead of the operation.
On infrastructure development, Mr. Jinapor noted that new substations expected to be completed by June would significantly improve electricity supply and system stability in the area.
Meanwhile, Northern Regional Minister Adolf John Ali has appealed for a brief period of broader stakeholder consultation before the disconnection exercise begins. He pledged his full support for the revenue mobilisation drive once the consultations are complete.
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