The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has disclosed that nearly 1,000 electricity transformers across the country are currently operating beyond capacity, with plans underway to replace and upgrade them.

Addressing Parliament on March 16, he indicated that the situation is among the challenges inherited by his ministry, adding that efforts are in motion to strengthen Ghana’s power distribution network.

Mr Jinapor revealed that the next phase of the nationwide intervention is expected to commence before the end of the month, following a competitive procurement exercise being conducted by the Electricity Company of Ghana.

He noted that the problem is also evident in parts of the Tarkwa-Nsuaem constituency, where several transformers are overstretched. However, he clarified that there is currently no faulty transformer awaiting replacement in Nsuem.

According to the minister, the only defective transformer in the area is located at Nkwanta, and customers affected have already been redirected to nearby functioning units to maintain stable power supply.

He assured lawmakers that once new transformers are secured, areas facing the most critical challenges will be prioritised.

On procurement, Mr Jinapor explained that ECG opted for an open and competitive process to establish benchmark pricing, a move he said will promote transparency and serve as a guide for future acquisitions.