Energy and Green Transition Minister John Jinapor has raised alarm over rising power theft in Ghana’s Northern Region, especially in the Greater Tamale Metropolis.
He revealed that the Northern Region accounts for over 50 percent of the NEDCO total power theft, while more than 70 percent of residents in the Greater Tamale area are involved in illegal electricity connections.
This rampant theft has led to significant revenue losses amounting to millions of cedis for the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
Addressing the media, Minister Jinapor painted a stark picture of the challenges facing the Northern electricity sector.
“When you look at the losses within the northern sector, over 50% of the country’s total power theft is attributable to this region. Within the northern sector, over 70% of these losses come from Tamale,” he disclosed.
This rampant theft is not just a technical issue but a major financial drain, costing NEDCo millions of cedis in lost revenue every year.
The minister warned that such high levels of illegal connections and non-payment of electricity bills jeopardize the entire power supply system. “Without adequate revenue, it will be very difficult to complete critical projects and maintain reliable electricity delivery,” he stressed.
In response to the crisis,Jinapor revealed that they’ve had engaged with the Regional Minister and key local stakeholders to develop a coordinated strategy to tackle power theft.
“We’ve met the Regional Minister. We have also met all the stakeholders to help them understand that without revenue, it will be very difficult to complete projects such as this”.
The government plans to roll out a robust revenue mobilization and loss control campaign aimed at curbing illegal connections and improving bill collection.
“This is not just about enforcement; it’s about educating communities on the importance of paying for electricity to ensure sustainable power supply for all,” the minister explained.
Energy Minister highlighted ongoing projects, including the construction of new substations at Adubiliyili and Lamashegu, slated for completion by June to enhance power supply.
“Tamale has been experiencing significant challenges with power supply for some time now. The work being done on these new substations, once completed expected by June will enhance resilience, improve system stability, and lead to overall better electricity delivery.”
Source : www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
