The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has started a large tree-pruning and area-clearing project in the Ashanti Region. This aims to reduce electricity interruptions. These outages often happen because plants and trees grow too close to power lines. This new drive focuses on the rainy season. Overgrown vegetation is a main reason for power line problems. Falling branches can cause sudden power losses. They can also damage equipment.
Kofi Apau Ohenese, the ECG Ashanti Sub-Transmission General Manager, explained the problem. He said, "Vegetation control is very important." He spoke at a meeting in Kumasi. The government supports ECG with network improvements. But managing trees is also key to reliable power. To speed up the work, ECG paid money owed to tree-cutting companies. At least six companies are now working on this. They are clearing areas along important power routes. This includes paths like Akyawkrom-Kuntenase-Bekwai. All past payments to these contractors are now complete. This encourages them to work faster and better.
The ECG is also talking to people in communities. They want residents to stop planting tall trees near power lines. They also ask people not to plant them in special safety zones. James M. Yevunya manages Network Maintenance. He said about 75 per cent of the work is already done. The target is to finish before June. "Our goal is to stop trees causing power failures," he stated. ECG uses a special app for this. The Network Management System App helps with patrols. It allows for real-time checks on the power lines. Some large factories are happy about this. UNICEM Cement Ghana Limited uses a lot of electricity. An engineer there said voltage drops sometimes stop their machines. This wastes time and money. "If ECG continues this clearing work, it should help," he said. Improved power supply helps businesses run smoothly.
ECG expects fewer problems from trees. They also expect more stable electricity flow. Repair costs for emergencies should also go down. This work directly impacts industrial production. It also affects homes and businesses across the region. Reliable power is crucial for economic activity. Power outages can halt operations. They can also cause financial losses. The ECG's efforts are a response to these challenges. They are investing in maintenance. This project shows commitment to improving service. The focus on Ashanti Region highlights its importance.