The Motive Behind Dumsor In Ghana

The findings below are established on GRIDCo’s analysis of Ghana’s power supply situation from March 27 to April 2, 2024 and explains why Ghana has dumsor or load management.

GRIDCo has closely monitored Ghana’s power generation crisis since the beginning of March 2024, conceding the challenges in meeting the country’s electricity demand. The curtailment of power exports since March 27 reflects the severity of the situation, highlighting the need for instantaneous attention and strategic planning.

Ghana’s peak demand has surged to 3,618 MW, awfully exceeding the available capacity of 3,251 MW. With an installed capacity of 5,626 MW, the nation is only utilizing approximately 58% of its total capacity, leaving a considerable shortage of 2,375 MW. This deficit is compounded by a 740 MW shortfall attributed to ongoing maintenance, further straining the electricity supply infrastructure.

Among the maintenance-related issues, 330 MW remains uncertain in terms of repair timelines, adding complexity to the grid’s stability. Additionally, 4 thermal plants, collectively capable of generating 595 MW, are offline due to inadequate fuel supply, while a fault in the TICO unit 3 plant has rendered 120 MW inaccessible until December 2024, influencing the entire year’s power generation by that capacity.

Hence, Ghana faces a significant 1,455 MW shortfall in electricity generation capability, with gas supply limitations exacerbating the challenge. Despite efforts to reduce power exports by 40% during peak hours to prioritize local demand, the gap prevails!

The hydroelectric landscape presents mixed outcomes, with the Akosombo dam maintaining a stable electricity generation due to its adequate water levels, while the Bui dam’s decreasing levels raise concerns. If the downward trend persists, the Bui dam’s ability to generate power could be come to terms, leading to its limited usage to peak hours only.