Ghana’s 24-Hour Plus Economy Policy Implementation: Engr. Titus Kofi Andoh’s Take On Energy Demand And Challenges.

By: Engr. Titus Frank Kofi Andoh Ghana’s ambitious 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme (24H+), launched officially on July 2, 2025, aims to revolutionize the country’s economic landscape by extending productive activities beyond traditional working hours. This policy is designed to create 1.7 million jobs over four years, boost exports, and foster continuous industrial and service sector operations across the country. Central to this transformative agenda is the energy sector’s capacity to meet the increased and more evenly distributed electricity demand that a 24-hour economy will generate. This article explores the energy demand implications of the 24H+ policy, the challenges, and the opportunities it presents for Ghana’s power system. Current Energy Demand and Supply Context As of December 2024, Ghana’s installed electricity generation capacity stood at approximately 5,260 MW, with a dependable capacity of about 4,855 MW. The system peak load recorded in December 2024 was 3,952 MW, representing a 9.2% increase from 2023. For 2025, the peak load is projected to rise to 4,125 MW, a further 4.4% increase, driven by economic growth and expanding electricity access across distribution zones. Total electricity consumption is expected to increase from an estimated 24,688 GWh in 2024 to 25,836 GWh in 2025, reflecting a 4.7% growth. The generation mix remains dominated by thermal (65.8%) and hydro (33.1%) power, with renewables contributing less than 1%. Energy Consumption by Sector.
Source: Energy Commission, 2024 National Energy Statistical Bulletin
Source: Energy Commission, 2024 National Energy Statistical Bulletin
Energy Demand Implications of the 24-Hour Economy Policy
  • Smoother and Increased Load Profile
The 24H+ policy encourages shift-based, round-the clock operations in manufacturing, agro- processing, logistics, healthcare, and retail sectors. This will:
  1. Smooth out the traditional daytime peak demand, creating a more balanced 24-hour load
  2. Increase base-load electricity demand during night hours, which currently experiences underutilization of generation capacity.
  3. Drive higher overall electricity consumption due to extended operational hours across multiple sectors.
  •  Incentives to Support Energy Demand
To facilitate this shift, the government is offering:
  1. Discounted electricity tariffs for firms operating between 10 pm and 6
  2. Tax incentives including corporate income tax rebates (25% for two shifts, 50% for three shifts), and exemptions on import duties for manufacturing equipment, renewable energy systems, and raw materials.
  3. Enhanced nighttime security and infrastructure support to encourage participation
Challenges to Meeting Energy Demand
  • Fuel Supply Constraints
Ghana’s thermal power plants rely heavily on natural gas, with projected consumption of about 151.4 TBtu (133,977 MMscf) in 2025. However, the country faces natural gas supply shortfalls, especially during scheduled maintenance periods, with deficits potentially reaching 102 MMscfd in peak months. This poses a risk to the reliability of power supply essential for continuous industrial operations.
  • Infrastructure and Investment
The policy’s success depends on:
  1. Upgrading and expanding the national grid to handle increased and geographically dispersed demand.
  2. Mobilizing significant investment, with the government committing $300–$400 million as seed capital, and private sector commitments nearing $2 billion to bridge viability gaps and fund infrastructure development.
  • Environmental and Cost Considerations
  1. The heavy reliance on thermal generation raises concerns about greenhouse gas emission unless renewable energy integration accelerates.
  2. Fuel costs for thermal generation are substantial, with 2025 fuel expenditure estimated at US$1.25 billion, mostly for natural gas procurement.
  3. Without affordable and reliable electricity, the policy risks underperformance, as highlighted by energy analysts warning of potential failure without structural reforms in the power sector.
System Losses Technical and commercial losses remain high, with distribution utilities losing nearly 32% of electricity purchased in 2024 Opportunities Presented by the 24-Hour Economy
  1. Maximizing existing generation capacity by increasing utilization during off-peak hours, improving economic efficiency.
  2. Facilitating renewable energy integration by creating a more stable and predictable demand
  3. Boosting industrial productivity and export competitiveness through continuous
  4. Reducing transmission losses by smoothing demand peaks and valleys, which currently account for nearly 4% of generated electricity.
Policy Recommendations
  1. Accelerate grid upgrades and expand generation capacity, particularly from renewables, to support round-the-clock operations.
  2. Implement demand-side management strategies, including incentives for off-peak usage and energy efficiency programs.
  3. Strengthen regulatory frameworks to ensure transparency, investment security, and rapid response to grid challenges.
  4. Enhance public-private partnerships to mobilize capital and expertise for infrastructure
  5. Prioritize loss reduction through modernization of metering, monitoring, and enforcement against illegal connections.
Conclusion Ghana’s 24 Hour Plus Economy policy is a bold step toward economic transformation, promising substantial job creation and export growth. However, its success hinges on the energy sector’s ability to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable power around the clock. Addressing natural gas supply constraints, investing in grid infrastructure, and accelerating renewable energy deployment are critical to meeting the increased energy demand this policy will generate. If these challenges are effectively managed, the 24H+ policy could unlock Ghana’s full productive potential and position the country as a competitive player in the global economy. References Citi Newsroom, “24-Hour Economy policy to be launched today,” July 2, 2025. My Joy Online, “Explainer: What’s inside Ghana’s 24-hour economy blueprint?” July 3, 2025. Energy Commission Ghana, “2025 Energy Outlook for Ghana,” December 2024. Energy Commission Ghana, “Electricity Outlook 2025,” December 2024. Business & Financial Times, “Power struggle: Why the 24-Hr economy will fail without affordable electricity,” March 19, 2025.

Tanzania: Kiloleni Electricity Cooling Station Is 80% Complete – Says Tanesco MD

The Kiloleni Electricity Cooling Station project, currently under construction in Tabora Province, Tanzania, has reached 80% completion, according to Mr. Lazaro Twange, Executive Director of TANESCO. Mr. Twange disclosed this during a site visit on July 4, 2025, to assess the progress of work on the project. He was accompanied by Western Region Manager Richard Swai and Tabora Regional Manager Engineer Amina Ng’imba. Mr. Twange expressed satisfaction with the project’s implementation speed, which is estimated to cost 14.6 billion shillings. According to Twange, the electricity cooling station in Tabora town is one of nine such stations in the country being upgraded, including infrastructure improvements through the TT Group project, aimed at generating reliable electricity and alleviating the burden on citizens. During the visit, Mr. Twange also addressed Tanesco workers in Tabora Province, congratulating them on their good work while emphasizing the importance of continued diligence, dedication, and teamwork.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: ISA Selects Accra To Host Africa Regional Committee Meeting In September

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) has signed an agreement with Ghana through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition to host ISA’s Regional Committee Meeting in Accra scheduled from September 2–4, 2025. The meeting will bring together member countries to coordinate solar energy programmes, exchange technical expertise and mobilise financial and policy support for the continent’s solar transition. The agreement was signed in Accra last week and attended by both parties, including ISA’s Chief Operations Officer, Mr Wycliffe Joshua, Shishir Seth (Chief-Governance and Partnerships), Aditya Tiwari (Officer-Governance and Partnerships), and Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor and Directors of the Ministry. Mr Jinapor praised the selection of Ghana, and observed the country’s ongoing efforts to promote clean energy and reduce carbon emissions. “Ghana’s selection as host and our position as ISA’s Regional Vice President underscore our commitment to renewable energy leadership. Under President John Dramani Mahama’s green transition agenda, we are creating a favourable environment for solar development through robust policy reforms and infrastructure investment,” he said. The Chief Operations Officer of ISA, Mr Wycliffe Joshua, expressed strong support for Ghana’s leadership and renewable energy ambitions. “We thank Ghana for hosting this vital regional forum. “This meeting will help assess progress, identify strategic priorities and strengthen cooperation for a solar-powered future. Ghana’s launch of a Renewable Energy Authority and plans for a Green Energy Investment Fund are bold steps that set a precedent across the continent,” he remarked. Ghana’s role is expected to catalyse innovation, unlock investment and accelerate the deployment of solar technologies across Africa. As a founding member of ISA, Ghana has consistently demonstrated its dedication to renewable energy and sustainable development. The International Solar Alliance, a global initiative, aims to combat climate change through collaborative solar energy solutions. With Ghana hosting the regional committee, Africa is poised to make significant strides in solar adoption and energy transformation.         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Eban-Akoma Oil Block With 700MMboe Potential Declared Commercially Viable After Successful Appraisal By Eni And Partners, GNPC

Italian oil and gas firm Eni and its joint venture partners, in collaboration with the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), have declared oil and gas discoveries in the Eban-Akoma wells, located within the Cape Three Points Block 4, commercially viable after a successful appraisal programme. The appraisal confirms the commercial viability of hydrocarbons discovered in the Eban-1X(oil) and Akoma-1X(gas and condensate) wells, paving the way for the development of new domestic energy sources. The declaration of commercial viability of the two wells was submitted by the joint venture partners to the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition on July 4, 2025, according to a statement issued on Friday by Richmond G. Rockson Esq, Spokesperson for the Ministry. The discoveries in the Eban-Akoma wells were made by Eni and its partners in 2021. At the time, the oil giant stated that preliminary estimates for the combined potential of the Eban-Akoma complex ranged from 500 to 700 million barrels of oil equivalent (MMboe). Following the declaration, the joint venture partners intend to initiate the preparation of a comprehensive Plan of Development (POD), which will focus on optimal resource recovery, value maximisation, and the promotion of local content participation in line with national policy. Commenting on the new development, Mr John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition, described the declaration as a clear testament to the government’s commitment to the sustainable development of Ghana’s hydrocarbon resources. “The declaration of commerciality for the Eban-Akoma discoveries is a major boost to our oil and gas sector. It highlights the immense potential of our offshore resources to fuel economic transformation, enhance energy security, and drive Ghana’s industrialisation agenda. “We commend the joint venture partners and GNPC for their dedication to this strategic national asset,” the Minister stated. According to the Ministry, it is working closely with the Petroleum Commission and GNPC, and it will continue to provide the necessary oversight and support to ensure that the development of the Eban-Akoma project is conducted efficiently and in alignment with government priorities. Further technical and commercial evaluations will be undertaken to finalise a development framework that is mutually beneficial and aligned with Ghana’s long-term energy strategy. “This milestone underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a transparent, investor-friendly and resilient energy sector that delivers long-term value for the Ghanaian people,” Richmond Rockson Esq. said.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Energy Minister Inaugurates New Bui Power Authority Board

President John Dramani Mahama has appointed new board members for the Bui Power Authority, a state-owed second largest power generation company. The newly appointed board members are Amb Kwadwo Nyamekye-Marfo (Chairman), Ing Kow Eduakwa Sam (Ag CEO), Edna Agyepong, Ph.D, Fuseina Sulemana, Ing Yao Gomado (MP) and Mohammed Kwaku Doku. The Minister for Energy and Green Transition Energy Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor on Thursday, inaugurated the new and tasked the Board to strengthen corporate governance, review existing agreements and drive Ghana’s efforts toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. He emphasised the need for enhanced financial discipline and robust policy implementation, noting that government is committed to addressing inefficiencies that have hindered progress. “Upon assumption of office, we did an initial review and I must say we were unhappy with the state of the company especially pricing and the company’s strategic focus. I note that the company had signed a number of solar contracts. It’s time to focus on battery-backed solar. “As Minister, I will soon announce major reform initiatives to improve the effectiveness of energy-related contracts and reduce systemic waste.” he stated. Hon Jinapor expressed confidence in the newly appointed board, highlighting their diverse expertise and experience as key to supporting the government’s broader agenda for energy sustainability. The new Board Chairman, Ambassador Kwadwo Nyamekye Marfo, expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama and Hon Jinapor for the opportunity to serve. The board chairman pledged that BPA would pursue net-zero. “We recognise the urgency of the moment, rising energy demand, climate responsibility, and the need for bold decisions. We are committed to providing steadfast leadership to shape Ghana’s energy and green transition agenda. Providing sound governance and operational excellence is non-negotiable.” Ambassador Marfo said.       Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Zimbabwe: ZESA Holdings Executive Chairman Dr. Sydney Zikuzo Gata Passes Away

Zimbabwe’s power supply company, ZESA Holdings, has announced the passing of its Executive Chairman, Dr. Sydney Zikuzo Gata, a distinguished energy, power, and infrastructure development specialist. He passed away at a local hospital on July 3, 2025, after a short illness. Dr. Gata leaves behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to the energy sector. He dedicated his life to advancing energy solutions and infrastructure development. His illustrious career spanned several decades, during which he served as a beacon of hope for the nation and an inspiration to many. His leadership at ZESA transformed the organization during some of its most challenging times, addressing critical power supply issues. Dr. Gata’s visionary approach saw the introduction of strategic reforms that improved service delivery, and he was passionate about the welfare of the entire ZESA family. He was the first black General Manager of the Electricity Supply Commission (ESC), 1981-85. He then served as CEO and board member of ZESA in the mid-1980s to early 1990s. He was appointed ZESA Executive Chairman in 2001-2006, and was appointed to the same position in November 2019 until the time of his death. During the period 1976-81, Sydney Gata made an impact in Research and Teaching in the fields of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering. In 1976, he lectured at the Chelsea College of Aeronautical Engineering in London, United Kingdom. He also lectured at the City University Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics in London, the United Kingdom during the period 1977-80 before he came back to Zimbabwe to lecture at the University of Zimbabwe in the Faculty of Engineering during the period 1981-82. Furthermore, Dr. Gata served as a Board member of the World Energy Council Commission (WEC) for a three-year period between 1992-94.He also served as Deputy Chairman of the WEC Studies Committee. During his career he held advisory and board roles at the World Energy Council, African Development Bank and Integrated Energy Systems Ltd (UK) among others. He is survived by his wife the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Hon. Angeline Gata, children and grand children. Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Tanzania: Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation Signs Deal With Energetech-Tantel For Nationwide Gas Distribution

The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has signed a landmark deal with Energetech-Tantel for the nationwide distribution of natural gas via road and rail infrastructure over the next 12 months. This agreement will pave the way for an investment of between $80 million and $200 million to supply gas to four regions: Dodoma, Geita, Mwanza, and Kigoma. According to the Energy Commissioner for Petroleum and Gas at the Ministry of Energy, Mr. Goodluck Shirima, the first delivery of natural gas is expected almost 12 months after the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU). “This project will help supply gas to the country’s capital, Dodoma, as well as key production areas in the central regions, which have shown high gas demand,” Mr. Shirima told reporters in Dar es Salaam. Currently, only four regions benefit from access to natural gas: Lindi, Mtwara, Coast, and Dar es Salaam. However, the government’s goal is to ensure that gas reaches all regions in the country. Mr. Shirima added that the government is committed to building a gas-based economy, taking advantage of the abundant natural gas reserves, and that various initiatives are underway to develop this resource. The project will involve the construction of natural gas receiving centers and the distribution of gas to households, vehicles, and industries along the central corridor. Energetech-Tantel Holdings President and Chief Executive Director, Mr. Daniel Gabai, said the planned investment of between $80 million and $200 million will support the government’s vision of building a natural gas-driven economy. “We believe Tanzania will become a leading force for growth in Africa over the next decade, and this project will be the most efficient clean energy project on the continent, serving both local and regional markets,” Mr. Gabai said. TPDC Managing Director, Mr. Mussa Makame, stated that the project will enable the transportation of large volumes of natural gas and ensure its efficient delivery to different parts of the country. “Accelerating gas production with a commercial focus and involving the private sector is key to our strategy,” Mr. Makame said. He further noted that once the project is completed, it will cover the entire country, but implementation will be done in phases, with operations expected to begin within the next 12 months.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Liberia: IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi Arrives In Monrovia For Historic Visit

The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi, has arrived in Monrovia, the capital of Liberia, marking the first-ever visit of an IAEA chief to the country since it joined the agency in 1960. “I’m really happy to be here,” Grossi said. “This visit is long overdue, but I’m delighted to finally be in Liberia. Most importantly, it’s about the critical work we’re going to do together across several areas of national development,” Grossi told a section of the press when he arrived at the Roberts International Airport in Margibi County on Thursday, July 3. Grossi emphasized that the focus of the IAEA’s engagement in Liberia would not be solely on nuclear energy but rather on “nuclear applications” – the peaceful use of nuclear technologies in health, agriculture, and water resource management. “Our work here will center primarily on cancer care, nuclear medicine, and oncology, as well as agriculture and water,” he noted. “These applications of nuclear science have proven powerful in advancing human development, and we’re excited to bring that benefit to Liberia.”   The Director General highlighted a key health initiative: the establishment of a new brain therapy program. “We’ll be providing critical equipment to help treat more patients,” he explained. “Given the high burden of cancer in the country, this program will make a real difference. We also plan to provide training for Liberian health professionals so they can better serve their communities.” During his stay, Grossi is expected to hold meetings with President Joseph Boakai, Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Deputy Minister of Energy at the Ministry of Mines and Energy, William T. Thompson, and other senior government officials. The agenda will include a review of existing IAEA-supported projects and opportunities to deepen cooperation. Looking beyond immediate developmental priorities, Grossi also addressed the future role of nuclear energy on the continent. “Nuclear energy, as a clean energy source, should not be reserved for a few countries,” he said. “Africa is showing growing interest. South Africa currently operates nuclear power plants, but now Egypt is building its own. Ghana, Senegal, Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia are also exploring nuclear options.” He pointed out that recent advances in small modular reactor technologies have made nuclear energy more accessible and efficient. “These developments could make nuclear power a viable option for countries like Liberia,” he added. “So, why not? Absolutely, it’s a possibility for Liberians too.” Grossi’s visit signals a renewed chapter in Liberia’s IAEA collaboration, with potential benefits across health, agriculture, energy, and education. Grossi was received at the RIA upon his arrival by a high-level delegation led by the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Emmanuel Urey Yarkpawolo, Cllr. Jeddi Mowbray Armah, Deputy Minister for Legal Affairs, and Karishma Pelham-Raad, Assistant Minister for International Organization Affairs.           Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Nigeria: IBEDC Sold For N100bn, Says AMCON

The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, one of the power distribution firms in Nigeria, has been sold, according to the CEO of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). Gbenga Alake disclosed this during a press engagement on Thursday, stating that the company was sold for N100 billion. Alake said AMCON would soon hand over the power firm to the preferred bidder. “Today, I announce to you that Ibadan DisCo has been sold,” the AMCON boss said. “When we took over, it had already been sold, but we intervened and requested a new offer. We weren’t satisfied with the initial sale price.” Alake added that the sale triggered legal battles, with various interests disputing the outcome. Despite the ongoing court proceedings, AMCON remains confident that the sale was conducted fairly. “We have sold it, and we will address any issues that arise in court,” he said. The sale has drawn attention in the past. On May 15, a report emerged that a civil society organization, the African Initiative Against Abuse of Public Trust, had filed a lawsuit against AMCON, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), and Ibadan DisCo. The lawsuit alleged that the proposed sale of a 60% stake in IBEDC for $62 million was “secretive and illegal” and claimed that the amount was “corruptly undervalued.”         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: ECG Assures KATH Of Stable Power Supply

The Electricity Company of Ghana has assured the management of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) of a stable power supply. The assurance was given during a courtesy call from the management of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, who introduced the new CEO of the hospital, Dr. Paa Kwasi Baidoo, to the management of the Ashanti West Region of ECG on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. KATH, one of Ghana’s four teaching hospitals, serves as a referral center for patients from 10 out of the 16 regions in the country, making the provision of a stable power supply crucial for saving lives and enhancing the hospital’s operational efficiency. Addressing the CEO and his entourage, Ing. George Amoah, General Manager of ECG Ashanti West Region, assured the CEO of KATH that ECG is committed to providing a stable power supply to the hospital. “As a company, our mandate is to provide quality, reliable, and safe electricity services to support the socioeconomic development of the country. Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital is one of the key stakeholders that render essential services to millions of people; hence, our unwavering commitment to ensuring a stable power supply to the hospital,” he said. He added that once ECG receives power in the Ashanti Region, the priority is to supply Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital first to ensure that they contribute to enabling the hospital to deliver quality healthcare and save lives. On his part, Dr. Paa Kwasi Baidoo, CEO of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, praised ECG for the improved power supply to the hospital and consistent efforts to prioritize the hospital in electricity distribution whenever challenges occur within the national grid. He further underscored the importance of the existing relationship between KATH and ECG and promised to deepen the relationship between both entities under his leadership.         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Tanzania: Energy Ministry Takes Steps Towards Nuclear Power Generation

The Tanzanian Ministry of Energy has begun taking steps to implement the Presidential Directive to include the adoption of nuclear energy in the electricity generation mix. The Ministry kicked off the process with a working meeting chaired by Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Khatibu Kazungu, where discussions focused on the stages of implementation for the nuclear energy program. The meeting, held at the ministry’s branch office in Dar es Salaam, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Energy, heads of institutions under the ministry, representatives from regulatory bodies, and experts in the energy and environmental sectors. Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Kazungu emphasized that the ministry will closely oversee the implementation of President Samia’s directive, which was issued on June 27, 2025, during the conclusion of parliamentary sessions, concerning the safe use of nuclear energy for electricity production. “The Ministry of Energy will continue to oversee the establishment of the nuclear energy program to ensure that our country secures a safe and sustainable source of energy. We will continue collaborating with our institutions and other stakeholders to ensure these preparations are carried out with great care and in accordance with international standards,” said Dr. Kazungu. Dr. Kazungu directed the National Committee responsible for the matter to prepare a National Roadmap, which will outline all critical steps required to implement the nuclear energy program up to the year 2050. He explained that the program will include conducting feasibility studies on the country’s uranium resources, policy and legal assessments, public awareness campaigns, and policy framework development to attract investment in the nuclear energy sector. The Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, Engineer Innocent Luoga, highlighted the importance of investing in public education and knowledge on the use of nuclear energy. “We must invest in knowledge and awareness so that citizens understand that nuclear energy is not a threat but an opportunity. We need to educate the public on the benefits of nuclear energy, how it is regulated, and the international safety measures in place to ensure a secure environment at all times,” said Engineer Luoga. This national initiative is expected to be part of Tanzania’s long-term strategy to ensure reliable sources of electricity while also protecting the environment and strengthening the nation’s economy. Nuclear power inclusion in the energy mix is gaining momentum in Africa. Currently, apart from South Africa, which operates the Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant, countries like Ghana, Uganda, Sudan, Algeria, Nigeria, Kenya, and Burkina Faso are pursuing the establishment of nuclear power plants. Egypt’s El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, which is under construction, is at an advanced stage.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Zimbabwe: Massive Blackout Hits Zimbabwe After System Failure

Zimbabwe has been hit by a nationwide blackout after a system disturbance that occurred at about 14:11 hours on Thursday, July 3, 2025. According to ZESA Holdings, the system disturbance caused a loss of generation from Kariba and Hwange Power Stations. It said the interconnections with National Transmission (South Africa) and Zesco (Zambia), as well as supplies from HCB (Mozambique), were simultaneously lost. In a statement issued, ZESA Holdings said restoration efforts are currently underway, and power has already been successfully restored to some areas. “Our teams are working tirelessly to bring the remaining affected areas back online in the shortest possible time. Further updates will be given as the system restoration progresses,” ZESA said. It apologized for the inconvenience caused to citizens.   Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Libya: AGOCO Fixes Leak On Crude Oil Pipeline Linked To Top Refinery

Arabian Gulf Oil Company (AGOCO), wholly owned by the National Oil Corporation of Libya, has completed repairs on a crude oil pipeline where a leak was detected at the end of May. AGOCO completed the repairs on the Hamada-Zawiya crude oil pipeline, the company said in a statement on Thursday. Zawiya, which lies 25 miles west of Tripoli, is home to the largest operational refinery in the country with a capacity to process 120,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil. The Zawiya refinery is connected to the 300,000-bpd Sharara oilfield, Libya’s largest. Following the leak on the Hamada-Zawiya pipeline, AGOCO halted the flow of crude. Libya has been struggling with old oil and gas infrastructure as international majors shunned the country for more than a decade since the civil war began after the toppling of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. However, foreign majors are willing to go back if Libya’s first exploration bid round in 18 years is anything to go by. Supermajors ExxonMobil, Chevron, TotalEnergies, and Eni are competing in Libya’s first oil bid round since 2007, ‏Masoud Suleman, chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC), told Bloomberg in an interview published on Wednesday. The majors are among the 37 international companies that have expressed interest in Libyan acreage for oil and gas exploration, NOC’s Suleman told Bloomberg. “Almost all well-known international companies” are competing in the tender, the executive added. Libya is offering a total of 22 blocks for exploration and development—11 offshore and 11 onshore blocks, including areas with undeveloped discoveries. Libya holds an estimated 91 billion barrels of oil equivalent in undiscovered oil and gas resources, NOC says. The country’s crude oil production is currently around 1.3-1.4 million bpd. The national corporation looks to boost oil production to 2 million bpd within the next three years, “contingent on sufficient funding.”     Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Iran President Signs Law Suspending Cooperation With IAEA

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has signed a law suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), amid growing tensions between Tehran and the UN nuclear watchdog following Israeli and US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities last month. “Masoud Pezeshkian promulgated the law suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency,” Iranian state TV reported on Wednesday. The announcement comes a week after Iran’s parliament passed legislation to suspend cooperation with the IAEA, citing Israel’s June 13 surprise attack on Iran and later strikes by the US on Iranian nuclear facilities. According to the parliament resolution, IAEA inspectors will not be allowed to visit nuclear sites without approval from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. In response to Pezeshkian formally enacting the suspension, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar urged European signatories of the 2015 nuclear deal to trigger the “snapback” mechanism and reinstate all UN sanctions on Iran. The snapback, set to expire in October, was part of the nuclear accord that collapsed after the United States withdrew in 2018. Iran began scaling back commitments a year later. Germany said Iran’s decision sends a “disastrous signal”. “For a diplomatic solution it is essential for Iran to work with the IAEA,” foreign ministry spokesman Martin Giese told reporters. The IAEA in a statement said it was “awaiting further official information from Iran”. Since Israel launched its assault on Iran last month,Tehran has sharply criticised the IAEA. Iran’s foreign minister earlier this week said IAEA chief Rafael Grossi was no longer welcome in the country. Officials have also criticised Grossi over a June 12 resolution passed by the IAEA board accusing Tehran of non-compliance with its nuclear obligations. Iranian officials said the resolution was among the “excuses” for the Israeli attacks that began on June 13 and lasted for 12 days. Iran has also rejected a request from IAEA chief Grossi to visit nuclear facilities bombed during the war.       Source: aljazeera.com