On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, GRIDCo had the honour of hosting a working visit from the newly appointed Deputy Ministers of Energy; Hon. John Kobina Abbam Aboah Sanie, (MP) for Mpohor Constituency and Hon. Collins Adomako Mensah (MP) for Afigya Kwabre North Constituency.
The engagement was an opportunity to highlight GRIDCo’s contribution to the electricity value chain and the Energy Sector in general, while raising issues germane to GRIDCo such as, delays in the execution of projects, implementation of the revenue sharing structure known as the “Cash Waterfall Mechanism” and GRIDCo’s commitment to deliver on its mandate.
Ing. Mark Baah, Director of Corporate Strategy & Advisor to the Chief Executive, welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Chief Executive. He gave an overview of GRIDCo’s operations, explaining its role as the sole Power Transmitter in the value chain saying, “GRIDCo solely bears the duty of facilitating transaction between Generating Companies and Bulk Customers”, Ing. Baah noted. He also elaborated on other aspects of GRIDCo’s work as the System Operator, Asset Care, Telecommunication Services and Consultancy. Ing. Baah also highlighted some operational challenges such as, the Right of Way encroachment, Galamsey impact on transmission assets and power evacuation constraints in the NITS.
On his part, the Director of Finance, Mr. Samuel Nkansah’s presentation focused on GRIDCo’s financial model based on which it executes projects, undertakes maintenance and transmits power. He indicated that revenue collections will improve if clients honour their obligation, which will ensure GRIDCo’s business and operations is viable for the future.
Another issue discussed with the two distinguished guests was the weight of compensation costs and taxes incurred for executing projects. Ing. Nicolina Yembilah, Director of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) urged support for some exemptions to mitigate what is sometimes a cost challenge for GRIDCo.
Hon. Sanie and Hon. Adomako-Mensah commended GRIDCo for how it has operated even in the face of financial challenges. They urged GRIDCo to utilise the appropriate channels and leverage opportunities to engage with the Parliamentary Select Committee for Mines & Energy and the Energy Ministry to seek resolution for the issues raised such as, tax and compensation.
The Ministerial delegation, then toured the System Control Centre (SCC) to understand in real-time, electricity dispatch, and better appreciate the work of GRIDCo in the power delivery chain as delivered in a presentation by Ing. Wofa Kwarteng, Manager, Dispatch.
The visit formed part of a three-day working visit to sector agencies by the newly appointed Deputy Ministers to familiarise themselves with their operations. In attendance were some Management Members and Staff, as well as officials from the Energy Ministry.
