Key Takeaways
- Eight‑hour outage slated for Monday, Aug 24 in parts of Ashanti Region.
- GRIDCo will replace a 364 MVA single‑circuit line with a 976 MVA double‑circuit system.
- Upgraded line expected to more than double transmission capacity and improve supply stability.
Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) announced that power will be disconnected for eight hours on Monday, August 24, affecting selected districts within the Ashanti Region. The interruption aligns with ongoing work by the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) on the Anwomaso‑Ridge transmission corridor.
The scheduled outage is part of a broader effort to modernise the regional grid, a priority identified after recurring voltage fluctuations in Kumasi and surrounding towns. Coordination between ECG and GRIDCo aims to minimise inconvenience while delivering long‑term benefits.
Background & Context
Historically, the Anwomaso‑Ridge line has operated as a single‑circuit conduit with a capacity of 364 MVA, limiting the volume of electricity that can be transferred from generation hubs to the densely populated Ashanti market. Frequent overloads have prompted load‑shedding incidents during peak demand periods.
National energy policy emphasizes expanding transmission infrastructure to support Ghana’s growing industrial base and residential consumption. The Ashanti Region, home to over five million people, represents a critical node in the national grid.
Technical Upgrade Details
GRIDCo’s project will install a double‑circuit line rated at 976 MVA, effectively more than doubling the original capacity. The new configuration allows parallel power flows, reducing the likelihood of single‑point failures.
Engineering assessments indicate that the upgraded line will improve voltage regulation and reduce transmission losses, contributing to overall system efficiency. Construction involves replacing aging conductors, upgrading tower structures, and integrating modern protection relays.
Implications for Consumers and Industry
For residential customers, the enhanced line promises fewer voltage drops and a more stable supply, particularly during evening peak hours. Small businesses that depend on reliable electricity may experience reduced operational disruptions.
Industrial facilities in Kumasi and adjacent districts stand to benefit from increased power availability, supporting expansion plans and attracting new investment. The upgrade also aligns with Ghana’s renewable energy targets by facilitating greater integration of solar and hydro generation.
Looking Ahead
Post‑completion monitoring will assess the line’s performance against projected capacity gains. Successful implementation could serve as a template for similar upgrades across other high‑demand corridors.
Stakeholders anticipate that the strengthened transmission network will contribute to national energy security and reinforce Ghana’s position as a regional power hub.
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