Ghana's government will construct a new 161kV power transmission line from Asepe to Ho. This initiative aims to address persistent low voltage problems in parts of the Volta and Oti Regions. The project also includes installing improved transformers.
Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor made the announcement at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, April 27. He stated that low voltage in these regions represents a long-standing infrastructure challenge. Many affected communities lack access to high-capacity transmission lines like the 161 kV, 275 kV, or 330 kV lines found elsewhere in the country. This absence has resulted in unstable electricity supply since Ghana's independence.
This infrastructural deficit impacts economic activity and daily life across the Volta and Oti regions. Reliable power is crucial for businesses, jobs, and overall development. Addressing this issue aligns with Ghana's broader economic goals of improving utility services and fostering regional growth. Previous efforts to stabilize power supply have often faced limitations without significant upgrades to core transmission infrastructure.
Minister Jinapor explained the immediate intervention. He stated, “The immediate thing we are going to do is to construct a 161 line from Asepe to Ho with improved transformers.” He added that this will remove Ho, a major consumption area, from the old line, giving it a dedicated power source. This action will boost voltage levels in smaller towns and communities. The government acknowledges the historical nature of the problem but focuses on practical solutions.
The new transmission line will alleviate pressure on the existing network. This will improve voltage stability across the affected regions. Preparatory work is expected to start soon, with a stakeholder engagement planned in Ho next week. This initiative forms part of a wider, long-term strategy to permanently resolve the energy challenge. Decision-makers and local markets will closely monitor the project's progress and its impact on power reliability. Improved electricity supply is expected to stimulate local economies and enhance residents' quality of life.
The Minister acknowledged the significant impact of low voltage on residents. This affects communities in both Volta and Oti regions, including Oti Damanko and Bimbila. Such instability hinders business operations and daily household activities. The government's commitment aims to provide a more reliable power grid. This will support greater economic participation and stability in these regions. Long-term power solutions are essential for sustainable development targets.
Addressing these power issues is vital for regional equity and economic development. Reliable electricity attracts investment and supports industrial growth. This upgrade will help integrate these regions more effectively into the national economy. It will also reduce losses from damaged appliances due to power fluctuations. The government's focus on infrastructure investment signals a positive outlook for these underserved areas. This project contributes to Ghana's wider goals of energy security and universal access to electricity.