GRIDCo and ECG Announce Completion Timeline for Kumasi Electrical Upgrade
The Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), with the support of the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), have confirmed that the current upgrades to the electrical transmission and distribution network in Kumasi are on track for completion by the end of November 2026.
Project Progress and Timeline Adjustments
During a recent stakeholder briefing and site inspection, Mr. Frank Asirifi Otchere, Chief Executive of GRIDCo, addressed previous delays that had shifted the project timeline. The adjustments included a rescheduling from July to accommodate the World Cup event. Mr. Otchere assured attendees that contractors had resumed full operations, emphasizing the commitment to meet the extended deadline.
“The original completion date was set for November 16; however, due to an agreement with AFD, we have the timeline extended to the end of November. The contractor is confident of completing the work unless unforeseen circumstances arise,” he stated.
Need for Upgrades in Kumasi’s Electricity Supply
Kumasi’s electricity infrastructure has long depended on the aging K1–K2 transmission line, which stretches from Anwomaso to Ahodwo. This line has faced increasing challenges in fulfilling the rising demand, particularly during peak evening usage when air conditioning and other electrical appliances are heavily utilized.
GRIDCo reported that as of October 29, the project was 70% complete. The final phase, scheduled to occur from October 30 to November 29, will include the installation of new conductors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day, necessitating temporary daytime power interruptions for safety during the de-energization of existing lines.
Improvements and Capacity Expansion
Authorities have indicated that these interruptions are critical for resolving ongoing power supply issues in Kumasi. By December, the anticipated new 161kV double-circuit transmission line is expected to enhance the reliability of electricity supply across the city.
Mr. David Asamoah, Deputy Managing Director of ECG, also highlighted that electricity demand in Greater Kumasi had surged to 572.1 MVA, surpassing the installed capacity of 547 MVA, thereby exerting pressure on the existing network. This has led to an overloaded system operating at 105% of its designed capacity.
Network Improvement Investments
To counteract ongoing low-voltage issues and frequent feeder trips, ECG has initiated several network improvement projects, investing approximately $46.7 million, £10.1 million, and GH₵28 million in essential transmission and distribution corridors. Under the Offinso–Barekese corridor project, the transformer capacity at Offinso has been increased from 10 MVA to 20 MVA, with a redundant unit relocated to Barekese for optimal distribution.
By ensuring the completion of these upgrades and enhancements, authorities aim to stabilize and improve electricity delivery in Kumasi, supporting both current and future demand.
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