Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire have made a significant move toward enhancing regional energy integration and cooperation by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the 330kV interconnection project.
This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between the two countries, improve grid stability, and enhance operational reliability.
The 330kV interconnection project involves constructing a transmission line that will facilitate electricity exchange between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
It is expected to enhance the overall stability of the regional power grid, foster economic growth by providing a reliable source of energy, expand access to electricity for households and businesses, and reduce the costs associated with energy generation and transmission.
The MOU establishes the Terms of Reference to oversee the project’s implementation.
The project’s execution will be managed by two committees: the Joint Technical Steering Committee, co-chaired by the Chief Executives of GRIDCo and CI-ENERGIES, and the Joint Interstate Committee, co-chaired by the Ministers of Energy from both countries, which will provide political and strategic direction.
At the signing session, Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Energy, Richard Gyan-Mensah, emphasized that the project reflects the deepening cooperation between Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire and their shared commitment to building a resilient and integrated regional energy system.
He stated, “The Government of Ghana fully supports the operation of this cooperation framework. We are prepared to offer our expertise, resources, and institutional backing to guarantee the project’s prompt and successful implementation.”
Mr. Jean-Baptist Aka Kadjo, the Deputy Minister of Mines, Petroleum, and Energy of Côte d’Ivoire, expressed Côte d’Ivoire’s full commitment to working diligently, transparently, and collaboratively to achieve their goals.
He stated, “By working together, I am confident that we will successfully overcome the challenges before us and make significant progress for the benefit of our people. Côte d’Ivoire is ready to work closely with each of you to make this project an exemplary success.”
Meanwhile, Abdoulaye Dia, Secretary General of the West African Power Pool (WAPP), noted that the project was identified as a priority in the ECOWAS Master Plan for the development of regional generation and transmission facilities for 2019-2033.
This plan was adopted by the Conference of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS on December 22, 2018, during its 54th Ordinary Session held in Abuja, Nigeria.
The Secretary General stated that the signing of the MOU symbolizes Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire’s determination to collaborate for a prosperous energy future, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration for the development of the regional electricity market.
He mentioned that WAPP aims to complete the full synchronization of all 14 ECOWAS countries into a single grid, launch the ECOWAS electricity market, and establish the Independent Operator responsible for this market within the next 12 months.
This pioneering project is anticipated to yield numerous benefits, including deeper bilateral power trade, improved energy security, and economic growth.
The initiative is being supported by the World Bank, which has provided financing, while the WAPP Secretariat has played a crucial role in coordinating feasibility studies and providing leadership.
With the commitment of both governments and the support of international partners, the project is poised to positively impact the energy landscape of West Africa.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
