ECG Will Not Be Sold, Says Energy Minister John Jinapor

Energy Minister John Jinapor has dismissed rumors suggesting that the government plans to sell the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), the country’s state-owned power distributor.

Speaking during a visit to the West African Gas Pipeline Company Station in Tema, Jinapor firmly rejected the claims, stating they were completely false. He emphasized that while ECG will remain a state-owned entity, the government is exploring private sector involvement to improve its efficiency and financial sustainability.

“The reports and comments suggesting we are selling ECG are untrue. We are not selling ECG, but we do seek private sector participation to enhance efficiency, reduce losses, and increase revenue to cover some of the sector’s bills,” he clarified.

Jinapor also addressed the financial challenges facing the energy sector, highlighting that inefficiencies are forcing the government to divert resources intended for development projects to settle debts with energy suppliers like the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) and N-Gas.

“The Finance Minister should not have to use taxpayers’ money, which could be allocated for other development projects, to pay WAPCo. Yet, we are squeezing money from the budget to pay N-Gas the $75 million, which could have been used for projects like roads, hospitals, and infrastructure,” he stated.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to improving ECG’s operations by bringing in private sector expertise, reducing losses, and boosting revenue.

This comes amid growing concerns over the financial stability and sustainability of the country’s energy sector. The government insists that necessary reforms are critical to securing the sector’s future without compromising public interest.