No End in Sight for Dumsor Without Strategic Investment – Benjamin Nsiah, Energy Analyst
Benjamin Nsiah, an energy policy analyst, has sounded the alarm over Ghana’s persistent power outages, popularly known as Dumsor, stating that the country should not expect an end to the crisis anytime soon unless deliberate efforts are made to prioritize and invest in the energy sector.
Speaking on the Maakye show on Kessben TV this morning, Nsiah cited a combination of infrastructure deficits, fuel supply issues, and a lack of strategic planning as the main reasons for the ongoing power challenges.
“Dumsor cannot end anytime soon because the energy sector has not been prioritized. There are no clear strategies or sustained funding committed to resolving the underlying issues,” he stated.
Nsiah pointed out that most of Ghana’s power distribution infrastructure is outdated. He emphasized the urgent need for system upgrades and modernization, adding that there has been no commitment of resources to that part of the energy system.
In addition to infrastructure, he identified a critical fuel supply problem affecting power generation. Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and even state-owned facilities often face difficulties in securing fuel, hampering generation capacity.
“The source of fuel to power the plants is problematic, and this is why we continue to experience localised power outages,” he said.
Nsiah criticized key institutions like GRIDCo and the VRA for failing to keep the public informed about the real challenges facing the sector.
“GRIDCo is not communicating the infrastructure and fuel issues to Ghanaians. The institutions involved must be more transparent,” he stressed.
He further argued that political interference in the power sector has undermined institutional independence and effectiveness.
“Until these institutions are allowed to operate independently and transparently, the energy sector will continue to underperform,” he added.
When asked about the continued role of IPPs in Ghana’s power sector, Nsiah responded:
“Yes, we can do away with IPPs when we plan, prioritize, and properly fund the sector. Many of them have already recouped their investments.”
He called for a renegotiation of contracts with IPPs and a restructuring of the entire energy sector to attract more competitive and affordable private sector participation.
Written By: Adeline Mumuni
