Is VRA Ready For 1,200MW Boost? – Energy Committee Probes Thermal Expansion Plans.

The Chairman of Parliament’s Select Committee on Energy, Hon. Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, has questioned the readiness of the Volta River Authority (VRA) to absorb an additional 1,200 megawatts of thermal power expected from Ghana’s natural gas supply.

Hon. Bedzrah raised the concerns during the Committee’s working visit to VRA facilities, explaining that Parliament has already approved a budget to support the planned expansion.

The additional 1,200MW thermal capacity is expected to be powered by natural gas from the Jubilee partners, forming a key part of efforts to strengthen the country’s energy supply.

The visit was aimed at verifying timelines and assessing VRA’s preparedness, particularly regarding the T3 plant, which has been off-grid for some time.

He indicated that following further engagement, VRA clarified the technical processes required to restore the facility.

The T3 plant is expected to contribute 132 megawatts to the national grid through a combined cycle system, which uses both gas and steam turbines to improve efficiency.

Hon. Bedzrah also commended the presence of local expertise at the facility.

Unlike other sites where you see foreigners, this is solely Ghanaian workers, which gives us confidence and assurance in VRA,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of VRA, Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, assured the Committee that the Authority is fully prepared for the expansion and has secured the necessary land for new installations.

“We are fully ready. We have land in Ada, land in Tema close to TOR, land in Pone at Community 25, and land in Nahomaso.

Meanwhile, the Ranking Member of the Committee, Hon. Collins Adomako Mensah, appealed to the public to desist from vandalizing power infrastructure.

“I can’t understand why somebody would climb a pole and cut a line for personal interest, cutting off electricity to all of us. I want to appeal to our citizens to be careful.

Story by Nana Fynn@W/R.