News:
January 29, 2015
Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West, Mrs Ursula Owusu Ekuful has called for the immediate reduction of taxes on the importation of solar panels.
According to her, this move when implemented will encourage the use of solar power and also lessen the country’s dependence on electric power, especially at this crucial moment where the country is reeling under a power crisis.
The country has been plunged into darkness with an ongoing load shedding exercise for more than two years, and the situation seems not to get better anytime soon as GRIDCo has indicated of an intensified load shedding very soon due to a generation shortfall of more than 500 megawatts.
The shortfall is about a third of the entire 2,000 megawatts needed for distribution.
According to the Volta River Authority (VRA), the power crisis has deepened again because of water levels in the Akosombo, Bui and Kpone Dams, in addition to the scarce gas supply from Nigeria and the breakdown of some power generators.
However, contributing to a discussion on Peace FM’s Kokrokoo show Thursday, Hon. Ursula Owusu stated that it was about time the country looks out for other sources of energy other than electric power.
She urged that construction companies should also be charged to put solar panels on new projects, as most developed have gone the solar way in terms of providing energy.
Hon. Ursula Owusu Ekuful accused government of not being able to find a lasting solution for the erratic power supply that has plagued the country for nearly three years, but is rather trying to cover up by signing contracts which will not help the situation.
Kwadwo Anim/Ghanamps.gov.gh