The Minister for Energy, John Jinapor, has denied reports suggesting that the government intends to privatize the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

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Speaking to the press during his visit to the West African Gas Pipeline Company in Tema, Jinapor clarified that the rumors are baseless.

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He emphasized that the ECG will not be sold but that the government aims to involve the private sector to boost operational effectiveness and ensure financial stability.

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“The news items, the publication and the commentary by some people who should know better that we are selling ECG. It’s not true; it will not be sold, but we want some private sector participation to bring about the high level of efficiency, reduce the losses, increase the revenue base so that we can pay for some of these bills we are talking about,” Mr. Jinapor stated.

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The Minister also highlighted the financial burden caused by inefficiencies within the energy sector. He expressed concern that funds intended for development are instead being used to clear debts owed to companies like the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) and N-Gas.

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“The Minister of Finance under normal circumstances should not be taking the taxpayers’ money which could have been used for other development projects to pay WAPCo. But today we have to squeeze and take money from the budget to pay N-Gas for this $75 million. That could have been used for other developmental projects such as roads, hospitals and other infrastructure projects,” he noted.

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Mr. Jinapor reiterated that the government remains committed to boosting ECG's operations, with a focus on involving the private sector to increase efficiency, reduce financial setbacks, and grow revenue.

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This discussion surrounding the future of ECG comes at a time when the energy sector is struggling with debt and financial concerns. The government stresses the need for reforms to maintain the sector's long-term viability while safeguarding public interest.

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