ECG Not for Sale! – Energy Minister Debunks Claims, Calls for Private Sector Support
Government seeks efficiency, not privatization, as energy sector faces financial strain
- ECG will remain state-owned, but private sector involvement is needed for efficiency.
- Government is using taxpayer funds to pay energy sector debts
- Reforms aim to reduce losses, increase revenue, and ensure stable power supply.
Energy Minister John Jinapor has firmly dismissed rumors that the government plans to sell the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
Speaking during a working visit to the West African Gas Pipeline Company Station in Tema, he clarified that ECG will remain a state-owned entity but emphasized the need for private sector participation to enhance efficiency and financial sustainability.
“The claims that we are selling ECG are completely false. ECG is not for sale, but we want private sector involvement to boost efficiency, reduce losses, and increase revenue so we can pay our energy bills,” Mr. Jinapor stated.
He highlighted the financial burden caused by inefficiencies in the energy sector, noting that funds meant for infrastructure development are being diverted to settle debts owed to suppliers like the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) and N-Gas.
“The Finance Ministry should not be using taxpayers’ money—meant for roads, hospitals, and other projects—to pay WAPCo. But today, we have to take $75 million from the budget to settle debts owed to N-Gas,” he lamented.
Jinapor reiterated that while ECG will not be privatized, private sector collaboration is essential to improving operations, reducing financial losses, and securing a more stable power supply.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates about the future of ECG, as Ghana grapples with energy sector challenges, mounting debts, and the need for sustainable reforms.
