The Director of Education of La-Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Madam Habiba Kotomah, expressed her gratitude to Vivo Energy Ghana and the United Way Ghana for their continuous support to the school and the community at large, emphasising how the washroom facility has come as a solution to a dire need of a modern place of convenience for both teachers and students of the La Enobal Basic School.
In recognition of her steadfast commitment to advancing education, a citation in her honour was presented by the two organisations during the ceremony.
The contractor responsible for the project, Mr. Desmond Dickson of Azmon Limited provided an overview of the renovation, detailing the complete transformation of the old structure into a modern and functional facility.
The renovation works involved the conversion of pit latrines, popularly known as KVIP to water closets and the provision of urinal bowls and handwashing basins for both male and female washrooms.
Provision was also made for a dedicated washroom facility for the teachers. Old tiles, dilapidated ceiling, and roofing were also included in the work. To ensure regular supply of water, Vivo Energy Ghana again provided a 2500-litre overhead water tank for the school.
The washroom now meets high standards of hygiene and accessibility, ensuring a safe and dignified experience for all users.
This project is one of many initiatives spearheaded by Vivo Energy Ghana to promote sustainable developments within local communities and closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG 6)- ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: Vivo Energy Ghana Commissions Washroom Facility At La Enobal Basic School
Vivo Energy Ghana, the exclusive marketer and distributor of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants, has commissioned a fully renovated washroom facility for La Enobal Basic School in Labone, Accra.
The initiative underscores the company’s commitment to improving educational infrastructure and supporting the development of communities within its operational areas.
The event, held at the school premises, was graced by key dignitaries including the Director of Education of La-Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Madam Habiba Kotomah, Management of Vivo Energy Ghana, the Parent-Teacher Association and Headmasters of neighbouring schools.
Commissioning the facility, the Finance Manager of Vivo Energy Ghana, Kilai Muasya, highlighted the importance of creating an environment conducive for learning, emphasising that proper sanitation facilities are vital for the health and well-being of students.
“At Vivo Energy Ghana, we believe in growing with our communities and providing a clean and safe learning environment is foundational to achieving quality education. This facility reflects our dedication to empowering the next generation through meaningful partnerships and impactful interventions” he said.
The Director of Education of La-Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Madam Habiba Kotomah, expressed her gratitude to Vivo Energy Ghana and the United Way Ghana for their continuous support to the school and the community at large, emphasising how the washroom facility has come as a solution to a dire need of a modern place of convenience for both teachers and students of the La Enobal Basic School.
In recognition of her steadfast commitment to advancing education, a citation in her honour was presented by the two organisations during the ceremony.
The contractor responsible for the project, Mr. Desmond Dickson of Azmon Limited provided an overview of the renovation, detailing the complete transformation of the old structure into a modern and functional facility.
The renovation works involved the conversion of pit latrines, popularly known as KVIP to water closets and the provision of urinal bowls and handwashing basins for both male and female washrooms.
Provision was also made for a dedicated washroom facility for the teachers. Old tiles, dilapidated ceiling, and roofing were also included in the work. To ensure regular supply of water, Vivo Energy Ghana again provided a 2500-litre overhead water tank for the school.
The washroom now meets high standards of hygiene and accessibility, ensuring a safe and dignified experience for all users.
This project is one of many initiatives spearheaded by Vivo Energy Ghana to promote sustainable developments within local communities and closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG 6)- ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
The Director of Education of La-Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Madam Habiba Kotomah, expressed her gratitude to Vivo Energy Ghana and the United Way Ghana for their continuous support to the school and the community at large, emphasising how the washroom facility has come as a solution to a dire need of a modern place of convenience for both teachers and students of the La Enobal Basic School.
In recognition of her steadfast commitment to advancing education, a citation in her honour was presented by the two organisations during the ceremony.
The contractor responsible for the project, Mr. Desmond Dickson of Azmon Limited provided an overview of the renovation, detailing the complete transformation of the old structure into a modern and functional facility.
The renovation works involved the conversion of pit latrines, popularly known as KVIP to water closets and the provision of urinal bowls and handwashing basins for both male and female washrooms.
Provision was also made for a dedicated washroom facility for the teachers. Old tiles, dilapidated ceiling, and roofing were also included in the work. To ensure regular supply of water, Vivo Energy Ghana again provided a 2500-litre overhead water tank for the school.
The washroom now meets high standards of hygiene and accessibility, ensuring a safe and dignified experience for all users.
This project is one of many initiatives spearheaded by Vivo Energy Ghana to promote sustainable developments within local communities and closely aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG 6)- ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Nigeria: No Imminent 65% Electricity Tariff Hike – Special Adviser On Energy Clarifies
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Advisor on Energy, Olu Arowolo Verheijen, has clarified her recent comment, which was twisted by some Nigerian media outlets, leading to growing concerns among Nigerians.
Some media reports suggested an imminent 65% hike in electricity tariffs, attributing it to Olu Arowolo Verheijen.
However, in a press statement on Monday, February 3, 2025, she described the report as a misrepresentation of her statement in a recent interview.
“This is a misrepresentation of what I actually said in a recent press interview,” she said.
Rather, she explained that following the increase in Band A tariffs in 2024, current tariffs cover approximately 65% of the actual cost of supplying electricity, with the Federal Government continuing to subsidise the difference.
According to her, the government prioritises metering, debt reduction and protection of vulnerable Nigerians.
The rollout of smart meters, starting this year, aims to end estimated billing for 7 million households, bringing transparency to electricity charges and improving revenue collection across the sector.
The priorities of the government in the power sector include targeted electricity subsidies, settlement of legacy power debt, and reducing costs for alternative power generation.
These reforms aim to improve service delivery, expand access to electricity and unlock prosperity for all Nigerians.
By prioritising the needs of vulnerable citizens, the government is committed to ensuring that power sector reforms lead to tangible improvements in people’s daily lives.
Below is her full statement
In power sector, FG prioritizes metering, debt reduction, and protection of the most vulnerable Nigerians
Rollout of smart meters starting 2025 will end estimated billing for 7 million households
ABUJA, 03 February 2025 — It has become necessary to clarify media reports suggesting an imminent 65 percent increase in electricity tariffs.
This is a misrepresentation of what I actually said in a recent press interview. I highlighted the fact that, following the increase in Band A tariffs in 2024, current tariffs now cover approximately 65 percent of the actual cost of supplying electricity, with the Federal government continuing to subsidize the difference.
Also, while the government is indeed committed to ensuring fairer pricing over the long term, the immediate focus is on taking decisive action to deliver more electricity to Nigerians, ensure fewer outages, and guarantee the protection of the poorest and most vulnerable Nigerians.
In line with these, the Federal government’s power sector priorities include:
Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI):
One of the most significant steps in this reform is the Presidential Metering Initiative, which is accelerating the nationwide rollout of 7 million prepaid meters, starting this year.
This will finally put an end to the practice of estimated billing, giving consumers confidence in what they are paying for and ensuring transparency in electricity charges.
Metering will also improve revenue collection across the sector and will attract the investments needed to strengthen Nigeria’s power infrastructure.
Targeted Electricity Subsidies:
Today, the Federal government spends over ₦200 billion per month on electricity subsidies, but much of this support benefits the wealthiest 25 percent of Nigerians rather than those who truly need assistance.
To address this, the Federal government is working towards a targeted subsidy system to ensure that low-income households receive the most support. This approach will make electricity more affordable and accessible for millions of hardworking families.
Settlement of Legacy Power Debt:
Furthermore, the Federal government is addressing one of the major roadblocks to improved service, the mounting debts owed to power generation companies.
For years, these debts have prevented investments in new infrastructure and hampered efforts to improve electricity supply.
By clearing these outstanding obligations, the government is ensuring that power companies can reinvest in better service delivery, stronger infrastructure, and a more stable electricity supply for all Nigerians.
Reducing Costs for Alternative Power Generation:
Through a range of fiscal incentives, including VAT and Customs Duty Waivers, the Federal Government is working to lower the cost of alternative power sources such as Compressed Natural Gas and Liquified Petroleum Gas.
The government fully understands the economic realities facing citizens and is committed to ensuring that reforms in the power sector lead to tangible improvements in people’s daily lives.
Every policy is designed with the Nigerian people in mind — eliminating unfair estimated billing, ensuring that subsidies benefit the right people, and creating the conditions for stable, affordable electricity.
These reforms are laying the foundation for better service delivery, expanded access to electricity for homes and businesses, and unlocking prosperity for all Nigerians.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: GNPC, Shell Discuss LNG, Solar And Exploration Prospects
The Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) and Shell Energy Ghana are exploring opportunities to boost Ghana’s energy security through liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply, renewable energy expansion, and deepwater exploration.
This collaboration aims to enhance energy affordability, support Ghana’s transition to a diversified energy mix, and ensure stable and affordable energy for the country.
In a meeting between Acting GNPC Chief Executive Officer, Edward Abambire Bawa, and Shell Energy Ghana’s Managing Director and Country Chair, Brian Muriuki, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working together to advance in Ghana’s oil and gas industry.
Shell Energy Ghana, which has been active in LNG supply since 2019, provided updates on its thermal LNG project, which is now 99% complete.
The delegation emphasized Shell’s commitment to enhancing energy security in Ghana, particularly considering recent global energy price hikes caused by COVID-19 and global geopolitical tensions.
The discussions also touched on Shell’s 20% stake in the West Africa Gas Pipeline and the company’s plans to secure additional gas sources for Ghana.
Both parties acknowledged the critical role of natural gas in ensuring stable and affordable energy for the country.
In addition to gas infrastructure, Shell highlighted its 15-megawatts solar energy project in Ghana and its plans to expand renewable energy investments.
The company expressed interest in partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance energy affordability and support Ghana’s transition to a diversified energy mix.
Despite global efforts toward energy transition, Shell emphasized that hydrocarbons will continue to play a key role in meeting Ghana’s energy demands.
The company shared its interest in deepwater exploration in Ghana, revealing that preliminary discussions with the Petroleum Commission are underway.
Shell expressed confidence in Ghana’s hydrocarbon potential, stating that the country remains an attractive destination for upstream investments.
Mr. Edward Bawa welcomed Shell’s renewed interest in deepwater exploration, describing it as a positive development for Ghana’s upstream sector. He reiterated that GNPC is committed to working with partners to optimize the country’s hydrocarbon resources in a sustainable manner.
“Gas is the way forward if Ghana is to fully optimize and gain more value from its hydrocarbon resources,” Bawa stated.
“Ghana needs more gas to meet its energy demands, and GNPC shares the government’s vision of creating an enabling environment for key industry players to invest in the sector.”
At the end, both entities renewed their commitment to partnering, as both GNPC and Shell explore opportunities to enhance LNG supply, expand renewable energy investments, and drive sustainable oil and gas exploration in Ghana.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
The discussions also touched on Shell’s 20% stake in the West Africa Gas Pipeline and the company’s plans to secure additional gas sources for Ghana.
Both parties acknowledged the critical role of natural gas in ensuring stable and affordable energy for the country.
In addition to gas infrastructure, Shell highlighted its 15-megawatts solar energy project in Ghana and its plans to expand renewable energy investments.
The company expressed interest in partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance energy affordability and support Ghana’s transition to a diversified energy mix.
Despite global efforts toward energy transition, Shell emphasized that hydrocarbons will continue to play a key role in meeting Ghana’s energy demands.
The company shared its interest in deepwater exploration in Ghana, revealing that preliminary discussions with the Petroleum Commission are underway.
Shell expressed confidence in Ghana’s hydrocarbon potential, stating that the country remains an attractive destination for upstream investments.
Mr. Edward Bawa welcomed Shell’s renewed interest in deepwater exploration, describing it as a positive development for Ghana’s upstream sector. He reiterated that GNPC is committed to working with partners to optimize the country’s hydrocarbon resources in a sustainable manner.
“Gas is the way forward if Ghana is to fully optimize and gain more value from its hydrocarbon resources,” Bawa stated.
“Ghana needs more gas to meet its energy demands, and GNPC shares the government’s vision of creating an enabling environment for key industry players to invest in the sector.”
At the end, both entities renewed their commitment to partnering, as both GNPC and Shell explore opportunities to enhance LNG supply, expand renewable energy investments, and drive sustainable oil and gas exploration in Ghana.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: Three ECG Transformers Vandalised In Bogoso
Some unidentified persons have vandalised three Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) transformers in Bogoso in the Western Region, a report Ghana News Agency has said.
The report said two of the affected transformers, 50kVA and 200kVA, were in the circuit serving the Community Water at Bepoh Bridge and some bungalows at Anlonkwanta when the vandals attacked them.
The other affected one, which was a 100kVA dedicated transformer at Samahu was, however, not in the circuit.
Mr Awal Boye, Western Regional Public Relations Officer of ECG, said the incident had been reported to the police and investigations were being carried out.
He advised the public to be vigilant and report any unusual activity around ECG installations.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Mr Awal Boye, Western Regional Public Relations Officer of ECG, said the incident had been reported to the police and investigations were being carried out.
He advised the public to be vigilant and report any unusual activity around ECG installations.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Tullow Oil Considers Selling Non-Core Assets To Repay Bonds
Tullow Oil Plc said it will consider selling non-core assets while it plans to repay bonds maturing soon with a mix of cash and available credit lines.
The Africa-focused producer has $493 million of bonds that come due on March 1, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Part of the money to meet the obligations will come by drawing down a facility provided by Glencore Plc, the firm said in a trading statement on Thursday. It plans to “refinance and simplify” the remainder of its debt pile later this year.
The 2025 notes gained 3.5 cents on the dollar to 99.1 cents, according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Shares fell 1.6% in London at 9:56 a.m., adding to a drop of about 40% over the past 12 months.
Tullow borrowed billions of dollars during its free-spending days as a wildcatter searching for new oil basins. Chief Executive Officer Rahul Dhir refocused the business on its legacy assets in West Africa and improved its finances, reducing net debt to $1.45 billion since taking over in 2020.
Tullow also said it will consider disposing of non-core assets to help bring its debt below $1 billion. Sales would further reduce the scope of Tullow’s operations, after the company previously curbed exploration activity.
“Disposals will only be considered where the level of proceeds would be accretive to both equity and leverage,” the company said in the trading statement.
Tullow is facing changes at its helm, with the board looking for a new CEO after Dhir announced in December he would step down from the role.
The producer expects working interest production to average 50,000 to 55,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025. The firm also aim to identify future well locations at its Ghana fields.
Source: Worldoil.com
South Africa: Nersa Approves 12.7% Tariff For Eskom; Lower Than Expected
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) has approved electricity tariff adjustments for Eskom, the country’s national power utility, for the next three years.
For the 2025/26 financial year, Nersa approved a tariff increase of 12.7%, significantly lower than Eskom’s requested 36% hike.
The regulator also approved increases of 5.3% and 6% for the 2026/27 and 2027/28 financial years, respectively.
These increases are lower than Eskom’s expectations of 11% and 9% for the corresponding years.
The Ministry of Electricity and Energy welcomed the announcement, acknowledging that the lower-than-expected tariffs may pressure Eskom to optimize its investment strategy.
The Ministry has pledged to collaborate with Eskom to drive greater efficiencies and strengthen the utility’s infrastructure.
It’s worth noting that Eskom had previously stated that the Nersa-approved tariff increases for 2024 and 2025, combined with debt relief announced by the Minister of Finance, had improved the utility’s financial position.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Gov’t Will Prioritize Solar, Wind And Mini-Hydro For Energy Growth -Jinapor
Ghana has announced plans to transition from thermal-based plants to renewable energy sources, focusing on solar, wind, and mini-hydro projects to meet its growing energy demands.
According to Minister of Energy John Jinapor, this strategic move aims to reduce the country’s reliance on non-renewable energy and achieve long-term energy sustainability through a diversified energy mix.
The minister emphasized that Ghana’s energy transition plan is driven by the need to power its growing economy and ensure sustainable development.
By leveraging solar, wind, and mini-hydro resources, Ghana can reduce its carbon footprint, improve energy access, and drive industrialization, particularly within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework.
Ghana’s abundant renewable energy resources make it an ideal location for harnessing solar, wind, and mini-hydro power.
The country’s vast coastline offers favorable conditions for wind energy, while its several rivers are conducive to mini-hydro power generation.
At the Africa Prosperity Dialogue 2025 in Accra, Energy Minister John Jinapor stressed the importance of reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for economic growth across the continent.
“The government remains committed to advancing green energy solutions, positioning the country as a leader in the region’s energy transition.”
The governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) in its Manifesto for the 2024 General Election promised to implement an energy transition strategy that will augment thermal and hydro power production with nuclear and other renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, biogas, waste-to-energy, and other off-grid energy systems, like mini-hydropower production, and eliminate power wastage through public education and revised building codes.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Acting NPA Boss Kicks Off Stakeholder Engagement
Ghana’s National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Acting Chief Executive, Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, hit the ground running by engaging with key stakeholders in the petroleum downstream sector.
His first meeting was on Thursday with the Bulk Road Vehicle Owners Union (Tanker Owners Union), led by Executive Secretary Mr. Ignatius Koku Doe.
The discussions at the meeting centered around collaborative efforts to ensure a seamless operation of the sector.
Mr. Tameklo conveyed President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for a robust and efficient industry, receiving a warm welcome into his new role.
The association expressed its commitment to working together for the benefit of the industry and all its stakeholders.
Mr. Tameklo also met with the Executives of the Tanker Drivers Union, led by National Chairman Mr. George Nyaunu.
He acknowledged the vital role of tanker drivers in the petroleum downstream sector and assured the union’s leadership that addressing their welfare challenges would be a top priority.
Mr Tameklo was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama and he assumed post earlier this week.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Mr. Tameklo also met with the Executives of the Tanker Drivers Union, led by National Chairman Mr. George Nyaunu.
He acknowledged the vital role of tanker drivers in the petroleum downstream sector and assured the union’s leadership that addressing their welfare challenges would be a top priority.
Mr Tameklo was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama and he assumed post earlier this week.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: WAPCo Gears Up For Offshore Cleaning And Inspection
The West African Gas Pipeline Company Limited (WAPCo), owner and operator of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP), is preparing for the cleaning and inspection of the offshore segment of its pipeline from Nigeria to Ghana.
The cleaning of the 569km stretch of pipeline from WAPCo’s compressor station located at Badagry, Lagos State, Nigeria, to its regulating and metering station located at Aboadze, near Takoradi, Western Region, Ghana, is scheduled to begin on February 5, 2025.
WAPCo had initially planned to commence the second phase of the cleaning exercise in January 2025, after completing the first phase in December 2024.
However, the exercise was rescheduled to February 2025 to enable the new administration to make arrangements and procure adequate liquid fuels, notably Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) and Light Crude Oil (LCO), to power the thermal plants in both western and eastern power enclaves, as the exercise will result in a curtailment of gas supply.
The exercise is expected to last for 28 days.
During the cleaning and inspection exercise, WAPCo will replace subsea valves and undertake other related maintenance activities.
Ahead of this exercise, the WAPCo team is engaging with critical stakeholders and contractors involved in the project to ensure a safe and successful program execution.
Pre-mobilization teams are currently assembled at the two WAPCo locations in Nigeria and Ghana to ensure all is set up for critical equipment.
An effluent management system is also being installed at the company’s facility in Takoradi, where WAPCo expects to receive some effluent from the cleaning of the offshore pipeline.
Afolabi Oladimeji Ogunmefun, WAPCo’s Deputy Manager, Asset Integrity, and team lead for the cleaning and inspection project, is upbeat about the team’s preparedness for this maintenance activity.
“The team is ready and looking forward to undertaking this key pipeline integrity management program to manage our pipeline and confirm its integrity.”
WAPCo is committed to maintaining proactive stakeholder engagement processes established during the project’s preparation phase during execution.
“The company will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders on all matters to ensure the project’s safe execution and success,” says Auwal Ibrahim, WAPCo’s General Manager Operations & Maintenance.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: IES Celebrates Dr. Shafic, Prof. Klutse On Their Appointments
The Institute for Energy Security (IES) in Ghana is celebrating two major appointments of its board members to key positions in the country’s energy and environmental sectors.
Dr. Shafic Suleman, a board member at IES and Senior Lecturer at the Institute for Oil and Gas Studies at the University of Cape Coast in the Central Region, has been appointed as the Executive Secretary of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC).
According to the energy think tank, Dr. Shafic’s appointment is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional expertise and contributions to the energy sector, particularly in energy and petroleum economics, energy policy and law, sustainability, climate, and risk management.
“Your deep understanding of the complex dynamics of the energy sector and your commitment to sustainability are precisely what is needed to drive innovation, efficiency, and equity in the regulation of public utilities,” said Nafi Chinery, Board Chair of IES. “We have no doubt that your qualities will impact positively on your new role, where your leadership will be pivotal in ensuring the affordability, reliability, and sustainability of utility services for all Ghanaians.”
The IES also celebrated the appointment of Professor Nana Ama Klutse as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The IES said her appointment is a testament to her remarkable achievements as a renowned physicist, academic leader, and advocate for climate resilience and environmental sustainability. With her wealth of experience in climate science, environmental policy, and sustainable development, she is poised to bring transformative leadership to the EPA.
The IES has congratulated both Professor Klutse and Dr. Suleman on their appointments, expressing confidence that their leadership will have a positive impact on Ghana’s energy and environmental sectors. With their expertise and dedication, they are expected to drive innovation, efficiency, and equity in their respective roles.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Vandal Arrested for Damaging Ugwuaji-Makurdi 330kV Transmission Line Tower
A suspect was apprehended by members of Watuolo village, Utonkon in Ado local government area, Benue State, Nigeria, for vandalizing Tower T195 along the Ugwuaji-Makurdi 330kV transmission line.
The incident occurred on Saturday, January 25, 2025, according to the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN).
Community members noticed suspicious activity around the tower at about 3 am and promptly sprang into action, apprehending one of the vandals while the others escaped.
The suspect was subsequently handed over to the police.
The TCN commended the community’s swift action and vigilance, which prevented further damage to the transmission line.
The TCN appealed to other communities hosting critical infrastructure to emulate this example and take ownership of protecting transmission installations in their vicinity.
“TCN will continue to work with security operatives and host communities to prevent such incidents and ensure a stable power supply,” the statement concluded.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
The TCN commended the community’s swift action and vigilance, which prevented further damage to the transmission line.
The TCN appealed to other communities hosting critical infrastructure to emulate this example and take ownership of protecting transmission installations in their vicinity.
“TCN will continue to work with security operatives and host communities to prevent such incidents and ensure a stable power supply,” the statement concluded.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Angola And Namibia Strengthen Partnership On Oil Operations Center
Angola and Namibia are moving forward with their plans to develop a logistics operations center in Namibia, similar to the Sonangol Integrated Services Logistics Center (SONILS) in Angola.
The project is based on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the National Fuel Society of Angola (SONANGOL) and the National Petroleum and Ports Company of Namibia over a year ago.
Recently, Angolan Secretary of State for Oil and Gas, José Barroso, and Namibian Minister of Mines and Energy, Tom Alweendo, met in Luanda to analyze the MoU’s content.
The meeting was followed by a guided visit to the SONILS facilities, attended by the Namibian ambassador to Angola, Patrick Nandago.
According to Barroso, the visit aimed to evaluate the agreement and identify the benefits that the Angolan logistics center can offer Namibia.
He emphasized that the two ministries will increase their collaboration to make the project a reality.
Minister Alweendo highlighted the recent discovery of oil off Namibia’s coast as a key factor in the agreement.
He noted that the partnership with SONILS will enable the construction of an oil base in Namibia, driving growth and development in the region.
This partnership is part of a broader effort to enhance bilateral cooperation in the petroleum and natural gas sector between Angola and Namibia.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Invest In Tech To Revamp ECG And Ensure Sustainability(Article)
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) faces significant technical and operational challenges, with system losses hovering around 20%.
The majority of these losses are technical, stemming from aged infrastructure and inadequate monitoring systems. This paper proposes targeted investments in modern technology to address these challenges.
The focus is on the replacement and renewal of ECG’s over-30-year-old backbone infrastructure and the integration of advanced technologies such as specialized drones equipped with GPS capabilities.
International case studies are highlighted to underscore how similar strategies have successfully transformed other power distribution companies.
Finally, the paper emphasizes the need for ECG to operate as a business-oriented, politically independent entity.
Efficient power distribution is crucial for economic development. ECG’s persistent operational inefficiencies, reflected in high system losses, threaten Ghana’s energy security and economic growth. Technical losses, primarily due to voltage leakage from aging infrastructure, and operational inefficiencies such as power theft exacerbate the problem. Addressing these challenges requires a two-fold approach: upgrading infrastructure and adopting advanced monitoring technology.
The Case for Investment in Technology
1. Upgrading ECG’s Backbone Infrastructure
Over 30% of ECG’s infrastructure is more than three decades old. Voltage leakage through aging transformers, substation equipment, and power lines results in substantial technical losses. A phased infrastructure renewal program, focused on replacing outdated equipment with energy-efficient alternatives, could significantly reduce these losses.
Key Benefits:
- Reduced Voltage Leakage: Modern transformers and insulated power lines minimize energy dissipation.
- Enhanced Capacity: New infrastructure can support increased demand, reducing the risk of overloading and unplanned outages.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Replacing aging assets with new technology reduces frequent repair costs.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Enables faster identification and resolution of faults.
- Reduction in Power Theft: Drones can quickly detect illegal connections, particularly in industrial areas with high consumption.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Reduces the need for manual inspections, saving time and resources.
- Decentralization: Empower regional branches with operational and financial autonomy.
- Corporate Governance: Appoint a professional board of directors with clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
- Performance-Based Contracts: Link staff remuneration and promotions to performance metrics.
- Independent Regulation: Strengthen regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and accountability.
South Africa: Eskom, PwC Settle Long-Running Legal Dispute
South Africa’s power utility company, Eskom, and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) have reached a settlement agreement, bringing an end to a high court case initiated by Eskom in 2021.
The case centered on a cost reduction contract known as the “Capital Scrubbing engagement” and sought to recover payments made to PwC and Nkonki.
Under the terms of the settlement, the disputed contract has been set aside, and PwC will pay Eskom R43 million in a full and final settlement of Eskom’s claim.
This agreement marks a significant milestone in Eskom’s efforts to enhance governance and accountability.
Eskom Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, emphasized the importance of this outcome, stating that management’s commitment to addressing cases arising from the Zondo Commission’s findings has been instrumental in achieving this result.
Looking ahead, Eskom will continue to focus on implementing generation recovery, strengthening governance, and tackling crime and corruption while future-proofing the organization to ensure energy security, growth, and long-term sustainability for South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com