The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), through its Ashanti West operational zone, has successfully installed and commissioned 37 new transformers across the Greater Kumasi Metropolis. This initiative, launched recently, aims to significantly improve the reliability and capacity of the power supply to communities experiencing increased electricity demand.
Context of the Upgrade
The commissioning is a key component of a broader capital investment project spearheaded by the Ministry of Energy and ECG. The project focuses on upgrading aging distribution transformers that have been operating at or near their full capacity for some time. This increased load on existing infrastructure had begun to contribute to localized power disruptions.
Identified areas benefiting from these upgrades include Ahinsan, Abuakwa, Adum, Danyame, Kokoben, Bibiani, Suame, and the Offinso District. Other specific locations receiving the new transformers are the Trede SHS area, Kodie Apagya, Kayera, Nkwaie Pakala, Hemang, Bantama Race Course Market, Ampabame No. 2 Cemetery, Ntiribuoho, Pakyi No. 1, Brofoyedru, Ampatia Pentecost, Esaaso, Ehyen New Site, Agric Nzema, Otumfuo Last Stop, Bodwesango, Mpasatia, Buoho, Adiebeba, Apatrapa Endurance, Bronikrom, Asubonteng, the Kokoso Assemblies of God Church area, and Edwenase near the Goil filling station.
Addressing Capacity Issues
The GH₵10,944,456.02 project involved not only installing additional transformers to alleviate pressure on existing ones but also extending high-tension and low-voltage lines. Regional General Manager for ECG Ashanti West, Ing. George Amoah, explained the necessity of these upgrades.
“Every transformer has its capacity and the maximum electricity load it can carry,” Ing. Amoah stated. He elaborated that when transformers approached or exceeded 70% of their capacity, it could lead to issues like low voltage and phase outages. To combat this, ECG upgraded some transformers from 100kVA to 200kVA, and others from 200kVA to 315kVA. In certain high-demand locations, two 315kVA transformers were commissioned to adequately meet the growing needs.
Expected Benefits and Ongoing Efforts
The newly installed transformers are anticipated to yield several benefits. These include a reduction in system losses, enhanced reliability of power supply, improved operational efficiency and flexibility for ECG, and better voltage profiles, thereby addressing persistent low-voltage challenges faced by consumers.
Beyond the new installations, ECG has intensified its monitoring efforts. The company has increased both day and night inspections of distribution transformers to assess their condition and monitor load readings closely. This proactive approach helps in identifying potential issues before they escalate.
Regional Engineer for ECG Ashanti West, Ing. Emmanuel Osei Amoako, described the upgrade as a crucial step. “Kumasi, and for that matter, the Ashanti Region, is growing at a faster rate with increasing demand,” he noted. He emphasized that these new transformers will help meet the current demand while ECG continues to invest heavily in infrastructure to ensure future supply needs are met.
In addition to the 37 commissioned transformers, Ing. Osei Amoako revealed that ECG had already installed 36 other distribution transformers to replace faulty or damaged units in areas such as Twedie, Patasi Police Depot, Afia Kobi SHS, Denkyemuoso White House, and Ampabame Hills. Furthermore, the company has secured approval to install an additional 35 new distribution transformers, signaling a continued commitment to upgrading infrastructure across the region.
Public Advisory
Management of ECG has issued a stern warning to the public against any unlawful interference with the company’s infrastructure. Residents are urged to report any suspected illegal activities that could compromise the integrity of the electricity network.
The ongoing infrastructure upgrades are expected to significantly improve power stability in Greater Kumasi, supporting economic activities and enhancing the daily lives of residents. As ECG continues to invest in its network, the focus remains on ensuring a consistent and reliable power supply to meet the region’s expanding demands.
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