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Kenya Power Warns Rising Wind, Solar Generation Threatens Grid Stability

Michael Creg Afful
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Kenya Power Warns Rising Wind, Solar Generation Threatens Grid Stability

Kenya Power has raised concerns about the vulnerability of the country’s power grid due to a surge in generation from variable renewable energy (VRE) sources, particularly solar and wind.

VREs currently account for 34% of the total energy mix during peak daytime demand of 1,900 megawatts (MW), and 36% during periods of low demand of 1,200 MW, according to Kenya Power.

In a statement on Tuesday, the power distributor said the growing share of variable renewable energy exposed the national grid to system vulnerabilities when wind and solar generation suddenly dipped or increased, forcing the grid to rely on other generation sources to cushion the intermittency.

Kenya Power called for a careful balance in integrating VRE generation sources to mitigate their impact on the grid.

The intermittency of wind and solar power can affect the reliability and quality of electricity supply through their impact on grid frequency and voltage, the company said.

Kenya Power said grid stability should be prioritised and the additional costs required to supplement variable sources should be considered when integrating new generation capacity. This would help mitigate power outages and safeguard the quality and cost of electricity for consumers, it said.

“Global benchmarks point to a limit of 15% of the grid’s total firm capacity for VRE. Our current system under the take-or-pay model of power purchases has led to an increase in VREs to over 20%, against a recommended average of 15%. Given the intermittent nature of wind and solar, we have no option but to dispatch and pay for generators, increasing the overall cost of power,” said Kenya Power Managing Director and CEO Joseph Siror.

Kenya Power currently dispatches additional generation plants at extra cost to mitigate the risk of grid instability when VRE output suddenly falls or rises, a common occurrence that ultimately increases costs for final consumers, Siror said.

“For VREs, the recommendation is to have battery storage systems. However, they would still face a challenge in charging the batteries when the wind and solar dip. The true cost of VREs is its own cost and the additional power that we pay for to stabilise the grid,” he said.

“Therefore, investments in geothermal and hydro offer greater grid stability and ensure the grid can recover and remain productive when intermittent sources are unavailable,” Siror added.

Kenya has the highest dependence on VREs in the region, according to Kenya Power. Within the Eastern Africa Power Pool, Egypt’s VRE share stands at 10.4%, Ethiopia’s at 5.3%, Uganda’s at 4% and Tanzania’s at 1.2%.

Kenya’s current baseload generation comprises geothermal, hydro, power imports and thermal generation, which together account for 80% of the grid’s energy mix, the company said.

Kenya Power has called for an increase in baseload generation, which it said is more stable and less susceptible to fluctuations in output.

New baseload sources expected to be introduced to the grid include KenGen’s Olkaria I, with 61 MW; KenGen’s Olkaria VII, with 80 MW; Globeleq Menengai, with 35 MW; Orpower’s Menengai project, with 35 MW; 200 MW of imports from Ethiopia; Paka Silali, developed by the Geothermal Development Company (GDC), with 100 MW; and Nabuyole, with 28 MW.

Plans to raise the level of the Masinga Dam by 1.5 metres are also expected to increase annual electricity generation by 83 gigawatt-hours (GWh), the company said.

Other baseload generation projects in the pipeline include a planned liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant, initially proposed at 300 MW, the 700 MW High Grand Falls project and the 90 MW Karura Falls project.

Ghana: Vivo Energy Ghana Reinforces Safety Leadership With 2026 Safety Day Celebration

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: Vivo Energy Ghana Reinforces Safety Leadership With 2026 Safety Day Celebration

Vivo Energy Ghana PLC, the exclusive distributor and marketer of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in Ghana, has commemorated its 2026 Safety Day and Awards under the theme, “Prepare to Respond,” at its Airport City Shell service station in Accra.

The event brought together employees, regulators, industry leaders, business partners, members of the media and other key stakeholders to reinforce the company’s commitment to safety leadership, emergency preparedness and operational excellence across its value chain.

Across the global petroleum industry, safety remains a critical priority as operators continue to manage complex operational risks associated with the transportation, storage and distribution of petroleum products.

In Ghana, recent industry engagements led by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) have highlighted ongoing concerns over tanker accidents, fuel siphoning at accident scenes and the need for stronger safety practices across the downstream petroleum sector.

These developments have reinforced the importance of proactive risk management, continuous training and industry-wide collaboration in safeguarding people and infrastructure.

Safety Day serves as an annual opportunity for Vivo Energy Ghana to renew its focus on Health, Safety, Security, Environment and Quality (HSSEQ), while strengthening the culture of vigilance, accountability and preparedness that underpins its operations.

This year’s theme, “Prepare to Respond,” highlighted the importance of ensuring that people, systems and processes are equipped to respond swiftly, effectively and responsibly in the event of an emergency.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Christian Li, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to embedding safety in every aspect of its operations.

He noted that Vivo Energy Ghana’s strong safety culture is guided by its core values of Safety, Excellence, Caring, Respect and Integrity, and reflected in the company’s achievement of more than 5,600 Goal Zero days without harm.

“The future of safety will not be defined by luck, but by preparation. Safety does not happen by accident; it is deliberate, disciplined and a collective responsibility,” Mr. Li stated.

Delivering the keynote address, the Special Guest of Honour, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), commended Vivo Energy Ghana for demonstrating leadership in safety and environmental stewardship.

She emphasised that preparedness must extend beyond emergency response to include prevention, compliance, vigilance and environmental protection, particularly within a sector whose operations have significant implications for ecosystems, water resources, public health and surrounding communities.

“Preparing to respond means preparing to prevent. Together, by fostering a culture of compliance, vigilance and safety, we can protect our people, preserve our environment and secure a sustainable future for generations to come,” she said.

In a goodwill message, Mr. Gabriel Kumi, Board Chairman of COMAC, applauded Vivo Energy Ghana for its continued efforts to strengthen safety standards and promote responsible industry practices. He observed that effective safety management requires strong leadership, robust systems, continuous learning and a shared commitment from all stakeholders.

“Safety remains a shared responsibility, and our actions, decisions, inactions and preparedness can make a meaningful difference when situations demand a response,” he noted.

At the heart of the celebration was a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring representatives from the Ghana National Fire Service, COMAC, transporters and retailers.

A key highlight of the event was the Safety Awards ceremony, which recognised outstanding employees, transporters, contractors and retailers who have demonstrated an exemplary commitment to safety and operational discipline.

The awards celebrated individuals and teams whose vigilance, leadership and dedication continue to support Vivo Energy Ghana’s Goal Zero ambition and contribute to the company’s strong safety culture.

Nigeria Supplied 53.7 Mln Barrels Of Crude To Local Refiners In Q2

Michael Creg Afful
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Nigeria Supplied 53.7 Mln Barrels Of Crude To Local Refiners In Q2

Nigeria supplied 53.7 million barrels of crude oil and condensate to local refiners between April and June, achieving an overall compliance rate of 97.4% in the second quarter of 2026, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) said.

The regulator said the performance was in line with its enforcement of the Domestic Crude Supply Obligation (DCSO) under Section 109 of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

The NUPRC said it meets monthly with crude oil producers and licensed domestic refineries, after which producers are allocated specific volumes of crude oil and condensate to be offered to local refiners.

However, under the PIA, the framework operates on a “willing buyer, willing seller” basis, which influences the final volumes supplied.

In April, following consultations with stakeholders, the NUPRC allocated 18,127,638 barrels to producers. Producers offered 19,312,476 barrels to refiners, while actual supplies stood at 20,879,381 barrels, representing 114.9% compliance with the allocation.

In May, the commission allocated 18,778,392 barrels to producers. Producers offered 23,187,893 barrels to local refiners, but actual supplies stood at 14,228,865 barrels, representing 75.8% compliance.

In June, the NUPRC allocated 18,172,638 barrels to producers. Producers offered 26,835,119 barrels to refiners, while actual supplies stood at 18,606,026 barrels, representing 102.4% compliance.

The commission said the improvement in DCSO compliance coincided with an increase in local oil production and the signing of long-term crude supply agreements, backed by bankable sales and purchase agreements between producers and domestic refiners.

At the refinery level, the statistics showed that Dangote Refinery required 63 million barrels in the second quarter, while producers offered 68.1 million barrels. The volume offered to the refinery represented 98% of all crude volumes offered to domestic refiners.

Dangote Refinery ultimately accepted 52.6 million barrels, or 78% of the volume offered, the NUPRC said.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government’s objective of achieving energy sufficiency.

“Leveraging the framework of the PIA 2021, the commission aims to sustain recent gains in crude oil production while continuously enforcing the DCSO,” it said.

Ghana: Jinapor Meets Upstream Petroleum Chamber To Discuss Measures To Reverse Oil Production Decline

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: Jinapor Meets Upstream Petroleum Chamber To Discuss Measures To Reverse Oil Production Decline
Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has met with the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber to review developments in the country’s upstream petroleum sector and discuss measures to restore investor confidence and reverse the decline in oil production. Jinapor said the government’s priority was to deepen reforms aimed at making Ghana’s upstream petroleum sector more competitive and attractive to investors. “A key priority for government is to continue and deepen the reforms that have contributed to restoring confidence in Ghana’s upstream petroleum sector and creating a more attractive environment for investment,” Jinapor said in a post on Facebook. He said reversing the decline in oil production was high on the government’s agenda, alongside increasing gas production to meet growing domestic demand, particularly for power generation. “To achieve these objectives, government is pursuing a number of policy, regulatory and infrastructure interventions,” Jinapor said, adding that an ongoing review of the upstream legal and regulatory framework was intended, among other things, to improve the sector’s competitiveness and investment attractiveness. “Our objective is to maximise the value of the oil and gas produced in Ghana by processing and utilising more of our resources domestically,” he said. Jinapor also said increasing domestic gas supply, particularly for power generation, would be critical to improving energy security and reducing Ghana’s reliance on imported natural gas and other energy products. The minister said the meeting also provided an opportunity for the government to discuss concerns raised by the Chamber and strengthen collaboration between the government and industry. “I greatly value this constructive engagement with the Ghana Upstream Petroleum Chamber. A strong partnership between government and industry is essential to building a more competitive, predictable and sustainable petroleum sector,” he said. Ghana’s crude oil production has declined for six consecutive years, falling to 37.3 million barrels in 2025 from a peak of 71.44 million barrels in 2019, according to the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC).

Ghana: EOCO Intensifies Probe Into Berko Bribery Case Linked To AKSA Power Plant

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: EOCO Intensifies Probe Into Berko Bribery Case Linked To AKSA Power Plant
Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has intensified investigations into the Ghanaian dimension of a bribery case involving former Goldman Sachs banker and Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Managing Director Asante Kwaku Berko, following his conviction in the United States. EOCO said it had been directed by the Attorney-General to step up its investigations and had begun tracing funds and assets that may be linked to the alleged bribery scheme involving Ghanaian government officials. Berko, a dual Ghanaian-American citizen, was convicted by a federal jury in Brooklyn on Aug. 6 on charges of conspiracy to violate the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, violating the FCPA and money laundering conspiracy. He faces up to 30 years in prison when sentenced. U.S. prosecutors said Berko conspired with others to pay more than $1 million in bribes to multiple Ghanaian government officials to secure approvals for the development and financing of a power plant by Turkish energy company Aksa Enerji. According to evidence presented at trial, the alleged payments included discussions of $1 million to Ghana’s then-power minister and $250,000 to a senior adviser. Prosecutors also said payments were made to officials who travelled to Turkey to inspect equipment for the proposed plant. The allegations relate to the AKSA power project, which was developed during Ghana’s severe electricity shortages and became operational in 2017. EOCO said it had been monitoring developments in the case and, within its statutory mandate, had engaged with relevant authorities over the Ghanaian dimension of the matter. The anti-graft agency said its investigation would include tracing funds and assets linked to the alleged scheme and pursuing recovery where supported by evidence. “EOCO will not disclose sensitive operational information that could compromise ongoing investigations, the integrity of evidence or any future prosecution,” the agency said. The U.S. case has renewed scrutiny in Ghana over the identities of officials allegedly involved in the scheme and the circumstances surrounding the approval of the AKSA project.  EOCO STATEMENT ON THE CONVICTION OF ASANTE BERKO CASE AND RELATED INVESTIGATIONS The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) acknowledges the substantial public interest in the case involving Mr. Asante Kwaku Berko, a former Goldman Sachs investment banker who subsequently served as Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) in respect of allegations of bribery arising from his period in the private sector. EOCO wishes to assure the public that it has been attentive to the developments in this matter and has, within its statutory mandate, been engaged with the relevant authorities regarding the Ghanaian dimension of the case. Last year, EOCO received a request from its counterparts in the United States in connection with investigations into the alleged bribery scheme. The request sought information relating to specific individuals in Ghana who were considered relevant to the investigations, including a former Minister of State and public servants. Following receipt of the request, EOCO, in collaboration with the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice, commenced preliminary work in relation to the Ghanaian aspects of the matter. The Office also closely monitored the proceedings in the United States. Given the nature of the allegations and the international dimensions of the case, EOCO considered the evidence emerging from the U.S. proceedings to be potentially material to determining the appropriate scope and direction of any comprehensive investigation in Ghana. This approach was deliberate. EOCO’s responsibility is not merely to commence investigations for the sake of public perception, but to ensure that investigations are properly grounded in evidence conducted lawfully and capable where appropriate of supporting subsequent criminal proceedings and asset-recovery action. Following the conclusion of the proceedings in the United States and the conviction of Mr Asante Berko, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice immediately engaged the appropriate US authorities and will through lawful channels obtain relevant evidence, records and information necessary to advance the Ghanaian investigation which began last year. The Attorney-General has subsequently directed EOCO to escalate its investigations as the relevant information and official records are obtained from the competent authorities in the United States. EOCO has accordingly commenced the process of intensifying its investigation into the Ghanaian dimension of the matter. Importantly, and consistent with its statutory mandate, asset tracking and recovery form an integral part of EOCO’s investigative plan in this matter. The Office will examine where supported by evidence, whether any proceeds, benefits, assets or property may have been derived from or connected to suspected criminal conduct and where the law permits, pursue the appropriate measures for their preservation, recovery and restitution to the State. EOCO’s mandate extends beyond establishing whether an offence has been committed. Where economic or organised crime results in the unlawful acquisition or dissipation of public resources. The recovery of such resources is an essential component of the investigative and enforcement process. The Office therefore intends to follow the evidence and financial trail, including any relevant transactions, beneficiaries, assets and proceeds that may fall within its jurisdiction. EOCO wishes to emphasize, however that the conclusion of proceedings against Mr. Berko in the United States does not, by itself, establish criminal liability on the part of any person in Ghana. Any individual whose name appears in evidence obtained through the international cooperation process will be assessed independently on the basis of the evidence relevant to that person and in accordance with Ghanaian law. EOCO further wishes to assure the public that its collaboration with U.S. law-enforcement authorities and the Attorney-General’s Office remains active. The process of obtaining relevant records through lawful international cooperation is critical to ensuring that any Ghanaian investigation is comprehensive evidence-based and capable of producing a lawful outcome. The Office appreciates the legitimate public interest in this matter. At the same time, EOCO will not disclose sensitive operation information that could compromise ongoing investigations, the integrity of evidence or any future prosecution. EOCO remains committed to following the evidence without fear or favour, identifying and investigating economic and organised crime within its mandate, and pursuing the recovery of assets and public resources where the evidence and the law so require. Further information will be provided at the appropriate time.

The Gambia: NAWEC Denies Electricity Tariff Increase

Michael Creg Afful
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The Gambia: NAWEC Denies Electricity Tariff Increase
The Gambia’s National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) has denied reports circulating on social media that electricity tariffs, commonly referred to as “Cash Power” rates, have been increased. In a statement, NAWEC said no increase in electricity tariffs had been implemented. Any adjustment to electricity tariffs would be subject to the necessary regulatory approval processes and would be formally communicated to the public through NAWEC’s official channels, the company said. NAWEC also said electricity tariffs remained subsidised by the Gambian government. “These subsidies are intended to cushion consumers from the effects of rising global fuel prices and help maintain affordable electricity services for households and businesses across the country,” the company said. NAWEC urged customers and the general public to rely only on verified information shared through its official platforms and refrain from circulating unverified claims that could cause confusion or unnecessary concern. The company said it remained committed to transparency and would continue to keep the public informed of developments affecting its operations and services.

Iran Says Hormuz Will Remain Closed Until U.S. Meets Its Conditions

Michael Creg Afful
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Iran Says Hormuz Will Remain Closed Until U.S. Meets Its Conditions

Iran said on Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed unless the United States ends the war and meets Tehran’s conditions, raising the bar for a deal that would restore oil traffic through the key waterway.

Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Washington must end the conflict and unfreeze Iranian funds held overseas before Tehran would agree to reopen the strait.

Iran has also delivered additional conditions to the United States through mediators, Rezaei said in comments carried by the semi-official Tasnim news agency. He did not publicly identify those demands.

The comments complicate expectations that a shipping agreement could be reached quickly. U.S. officials had suggested last week that negotiations involving Iran and Oman were making progress towards allowing more vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude moved higher on Tuesday, with the October contract trading at $88.70 a barrel shortly after 1 p.m. ET, up 98 cents, or 1.12%.

The market has spent weeks reacting to signs that shipping through the Persian Gulf could normalize, even as actual tanker traffic has remained constrained and commercial vessels continue to face security risks.

Iran has previously discussed conditions that would give it greater control over inbound traffic through Hormuz and greater visibility over outbound vessels. Tehran has also insisted that any agreement recognise its security interests in the waterway.

The latest demands make clear that Iran is tying the shipping issue directly to the broader war rather than treating Hormuz as a separate maritime problem.

Rezaei’s comments leave the next move with Washington. Ending the war and releasing frozen Iranian funds would represent substantially bigger concessions than simply agreeing on shipping rules, and Tehran says the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until those demands are addressed.

Ghana: National Petroleum Authority Mourns Deputy CEO Dr. Dramani Bukari

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: National Petroleum Authority Mourns Deputy CEO Dr. Dramani Bukari

Ghana’s petroleum downstream regulator, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), has confirmed the sudden death of its Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Dramani Bukari.

News of Bukari’s death circulated on social media on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026, with some reports claiming that he died in London, where he had travelled for medical treatment.

The NPA confirmed his death at about 4 p.m. in a post on its official Facebook page, but did not disclose the cause or location of his death.

“Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return,” the regulator said, accompanying the statement with a reference to Qur’an 2:156.

“It is with profound sorrow that the Board and Management of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) announce the sudden passing of our Deputy Chief Executive, Dr. Dramani Bukari,” the statement said.

“Dr. Dramani Bukari’s passing is a great loss to the Authority, the downstream petroleum industry, and all who had the privilege to work with him.”

The NPA said it was deeply saddened by his death but took solace in the knowledge that he had “returned to his Maker.”

The board and management extended their condolences to his family, loved ones, colleagues and others mourning his death.

“We pray that the Almighty Allah give us all strength, comfort, and peace in this difficult time. May Allah grant our brother and leader eternal rest. Amen,” the statement said.

Several players in Ghana’s energy sector also expressed their condolences, recalling their interactions with the late deputy CEO.

GOIL PLC Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Edward Abambire Bawa said he first met Bukari while they served together on a subcommittee of Ghana’s Transition Team.

“I remember you as very affable, kind, and accommodating. God knows best. May your soul rest in perfect peace, bro. You will be missed,” Bawa wrote on Facebook.

Onasis Kobby, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, also expressed shock over Bukari’s death.

“Ohhhhhhhh Dramani Bukari, how can you do this? I am devastated,” Kobby wrote in a Facebook post.

Libya’s Zawiya Refinery Hit By Drones, NOC Warns Of Possible Shutdown

Michael Creg Afful
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Libya’s Zawiya Refinery Hit By Drones, NOC Warns Of Possible Shutdown
Libya’s largest operating refinery, the Zawiya refinery, was hit by drones on Monday evening, triggering a large fire and prompting the country’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) to warn that it could declare force majeure and suspend operations if attacks continue, Al Jazeera reported. Libya’s Ambulance and Emergency Service said on Tuesday that there were no “serious injuries” from the fire, with most patients treated for smoke inhalation. The refinery is located about 40 km (25 miles) west of the capital, Tripoli. In a statement shared on Facebook, the NOC said the fire broke out on Monday evening at tank 402-T, operated by the Brega Oil Company. The tank contained about 4.5 million litres (1.2 million gallons) of gasoline and was “directly targeted, resulting in a severe fire before the tank completely collapsed”, the NOC said. The NOC said the attack followed drone strikes on a water desalination plant at the refinery on Sunday and a naphtha reservoir on Saturday. The company declared a “maximum emergency” in the area and called on authorities to investigate the attacks and bring those responsible to justice. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attacks, and the NOC did not say who it believed was behind them. Hours later, the NOC said the refinery was “still being subject to sabotage attacks”, with a drone targeting an oil blending and filling plant operated by the Zawiya Oil Refining Company. The drone fell near the refinery’s main oil tank and a pipeline network used to produce oils for the domestic market, the NOC said, adding that there were no casualties or damage. “The company’s board of directors also confirms that if these attacks continue, it will have to declare a state of force majeure and suspend operations at the refinery,” the NOC said. The Brega Oil Company called on “all parties to stop the fighting and stay away from oil facilities and depots”. It said oil facilities were “vital infrastructure and owned by all Libyans” and that protecting them was “a national responsibility that does not tolerate any negligence”. The attacks highlight the continuing security challenges in Libya, where rival administrations and armed groups have retained influence despite a 2020 ceasefire that halted major fighting. Libya has been divided since 2014, following years of political turmoil after a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Two governments are currently vying for power: the United Nations-recognised administration in Tripoli, led by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, and a rival administration in the east backed by military commander Khalifa Haftar. In a statement, the Tripoli-based government said Dbeibah had met earlier on Tuesday with senior officials, including the interior minister and the chiefs of several armed groups in the capital, to discuss the latest security developments. Dbeibah “stressed the need to deal firmly with any transgressions or actions that threaten security or harm vital facilities and installations”, the statement said. Separately, a Libyan parliamentary panel condemned the attack and called for stronger protection of oil installations. “The House of Representatives’ Energy and Natural Resources Committee condemns in the strongest terms the criminal attack targeting the Zawiya Refinery, one of the most vital facilities in the oil and gas sector that is a cornerstone of the national economy,” it said in a statement.  

Ghana: ECG Cuts Hubtel Commission Fees, Saves GHS13.2m Monthly

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: ECG Cuts Hubtel Commission Fees, Saves GHS13.2m Monthly
Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) said it is saving GHS 13.2 million a month after renegotiating its contract with Hubtel, a local IT firm that reduced its commission fee from 3% to 1.65%, according to ECG’s 2025 annual financial statement. “We also renegotiated the Hubtel contract, slashing commission fees from 3% to 1.65%, which delivered substantial monthly savings of GHS 13.2 million,” Managing Director Julius Kwame Kpekpena said. Hubtel provides commercial, billing and digital payment infrastructure for ECG. Its system processes and secures transactions for electricity meter credits, prepaid quota purchases and postpaid utility bills, while supporting ECG’s revenue collection system. ECG said it also saves approximately GHS 5.6 million per month after decoupling its electronic payment platforms, effectively eliminating duplicate charges. The utility said it had also terminated 202 underperforming supply contracts, preventing further capital drain and generating savings of $227.6 million. “These actions demonstrate the Board and Management’s resolve to enforce fiscal discipline,” ECG said.  

Malawi: EGENCO Commissions 10MW Salima Solar Plant

Michael Creg Afful
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Malawi: EGENCO Commissions 10MW Salima Solar Plant

Malawi’s Electricity Generation Company (EGENCO) on Monday inaugurated the 10 MW Salima Solar Power Plant, the first phase of a planned 50 MW project aimed at diversifying electricity generation and improving the reliability of power supplies to support economic growth.

The first phase includes a 3.5 MW battery energy storage system (BESS) to help manage fluctuations in solar power generation and improve the stability and reliability of electricity supplied to the national grid.

EGENCO Chief Executive Officer William Liabunya said manufacturing of the battery system was already underway, with installation expected by the end of the year.

“The battery storage system will help manage fluctuations in power generation and improve the stability and reliability of electricity supplied to the national grid as Malawi continues to increase its uptake of renewable energy,” Liabunya said.

Liabunya also commended the Ministry of Finance, commercial banks and the Reserve Bank of Malawi for their support during the implementation of the project.

He said the support had enabled EGENCO to meet its financial obligations and that there were no outstanding payments to the contractor.

Land has been secured for the construction of the remaining 40 MW, while the process of procuring a company to conduct feasibility studies for the second phase is underway.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Energy Minister Jean Mathanga reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding the country’s electricity generation capacity.

“We need to increase electricity generation capacity in this country,” Mathanga said.

The Salima Solar Power Plant forms part of the government’s efforts, through the Energy Ministry and state-owned power companies such as EGENCO, to expand and diversify Malawi’s electricity generation sources.

Ghana: Ex-Power Minister Kwabena Donkor Denies Link To $1.5 Million Bribery Case Involving Former Goldman Sachs Banker

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: Ex-Power Minister Kwabena Donkor Denies Link To $1.5 Million Bribery Case Involving Former Goldman Sachs Banker
Ghana’s former power minister, Dr. Kwabena Donkor, has denied meeting former Goldman Sachs banker Asante Kwaku Berko or receiving a bribe from him to influence the selection of Turkish energy company Aksa Enerji Uretim A.S. to construct a power plant in Ghana in 2015. Donkor’s denial follows the conviction of Berko by a federal jury in Brooklyn, New York, in a bribery case involving payments to Ghanaian officials in connection with a power project. Donkor’s name and photograph, along with those of some current and former members of parliament, were circulated on social media over the weekend following Berko’s conviction. The case has prompted public and media discussion in Ghana, with speculation over the identities of Ghanaian officials allegedly linked to the case. In a statement issued on Monday through his lawyers, Cavendish Chambers, Donkor said allegations linking him to the U.S. case were false and had gained traction on social media following Berko’s conviction. “Our client has absolutely no knowledge about the allegations linked to him,” the statement said, adding that Donkor “completely and emphatically denies any knowledge of a request or demand for any money as alleged.” Donkor acknowledged that he was minister for power during the period in question and said the ministry negotiated with Turkish energy company AKSA Energy during Ghana’s power crisis, popularly known as “dumsor”. According to the statement, the negotiations formed part of the government’s efforts to secure emergency power generation during a period of severe nationwide power shortages. Donkor said the procurement process included a technical team made up of stakeholders in the electricity sector travelling to Istanbul, Turkey, to inspect equipment before it was shipped to Ghana. He described the inspection as standard pre-shipment practice. He said, however, that he never met Berko during the negotiations. “At no point in the course of this negotiation did he once set eyes on Mr. Asante Berko, nor has he since,” his lawyers said. The statement said Donkor had never met Berko, discussed or sought any personal financial benefit from him or any other person, authorised anyone to solicit money on his behalf, or received money or any other personal benefit from Berko or anyone else. It also said Donkor could not be held responsible if anyone had used his name to solicit money for personal gain. The lawyers said they were not aware of any evidence presented at the U.S. trial linking Donkor to demands for or receipt of money. “Our client does not understand that any evidence was led in the U.S. trial which linked him with demanding or receiving any money, cedis or dollars, or anything of value to him personally,” the statement said. Cavendish Chambers said it would take legal action against any publication that suggested Donkor was involved in the alleged bribery or sought to damage his reputation.

Nigeria: NERC Dissolves Kaduna Power Distributor’s Board Over ₦456.5 Billion Naira Debt

Michael Creg Afful
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Nigeria: NERC Dissolves Kaduna Power Distributor’s Board Over ₦456.5 Billion Naira Debt
Nigeria’s electricity regulator on Monday dissolved the board of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Plc (KAEDC) over cumulative market obligations of 456.5 billion naira (equivalent of $335,230,402.04) and prolonged financial, operational and regulatory failures. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) said it exercised its powers under Sections 75 to 79 of the Electricity Act 2023. KAEDC’s cumulative market obligations since its privatisation stood at about 456.5 billion naira as of May 2026, comprising 415.5 billion naira owed to Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc (NBET) and 41 billion naira owed to the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), NERC said. The company also had 14.26 billion naira in other non-market statutory and third-party obligations, the regulator said in Order No. NERC/2026/086, titled “Order on the Regulatory Intervention in Kaduna Electricity Distribution Plc Pursuant to the Electricity Act 2023“, which took effect on Monday, Aug. 10. NERC said KAEDC’s financial position deteriorated after ASI Engineering Limited took over its operations in June 2024, with the company accumulating more than 118.6 billion naira in additional market debt between then and May 2026. The regulator said the deterioration occurred despite government and regulatory interventions aimed at improving the company’s financial and operational performance. “KAEDC is in a grave situation characterised by prolonged regulatory and market default, inadequate investment, weak operational and commercial performance, insufficient assets relative to liabilities, and inability to present a credible pathway to sustainable recovery,” NERC said. The commission faulted KAEDC’s core investors for failing to provide NBET and NISO with acceptable payment bank guarantees as required under their vesting contract and the market rules governing Nigeria’s electricity supply industry. It also said the core investor had failed to present a credible plan for settling the liabilities. KAEDC paid 41.93% of its adjusted market invoices in 2025, resulting in a market shortfall of about 46.71 billion naira, NERC said. The regulator attributed the poor remittance performance largely to KAEDC’s high aggregate technical, commercial and collection losses, which stood at 71.88% in 2025. The losses meant the company could account for only about 28.2% of the electricity it received for delivery to end-use customers during the year, NERC said. The regulator also said KAEDC failed to meet its capital investment commitments. Its actual capital expenditure in 2025 was about 2.48 billion naira, compared with a minimum requirement of 24.51 billion naira, representing about 10% of the prescribed investment level. Meter coverage remained between 33.26% and 35.54% since ASI took over the company, despite interventions aimed at increasing metering across Nigeria’s electricity distribution companies, NERC said. The regulator said KAEDC had received about 6.58 billion naira in regulatory derogations between January 2024 and May 2026, as well as about 53.79 billion naira in federal government interventions since July 2018. Despite the support, the company failed to demonstrate a sustainable turnaround, NERC said. “The continued underperformance therefore poses material risk to end-use customers, creditors, market stability and continuity of electricity service,” the commission said. NERC said its analysis showed that KAEDC was facing severe liquidity constraints and that its commercial viability and continued participation in the electricity market posed a systemic risk to the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry. The regulator had previously notified KAEDC’s major shareholders and Afreximbank of the impending intervention and asked them to submit a credible recovery plan. Representatives of ASI Engineering, NERC, the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Afreximbank and Fidelity Bank met on June 11 to discuss proposals to rescue the utility, NERC said. The regulator said the meeting established that ASI had not complied with conditions attached to its acquisition of a 60% majority stake in KAEDC and had failed to meet BPE requirements for finalising the shareholding arrangements. ASI subsequently requested an extension of up to 24 months to stabilise KAEDC’s cash flow, prioritise critical investments and improve market remittances. NERC said the request was rejected after the commission, BPE and Afreximbank determined that a further extension was not justified given ASI’s lack of progress since taking effective control of the company in June 2024. “The commission, BPE and Afrexim considered this request against the backdrop of ASI being in effective control of KAEDC since June 2024 without a corresponding improvement in the utility’s financial and operational performance, and determined that a further extension of comparable duration was not justifiable in view of the continuing risk to end-use customers and the market,” NERC said.  

Ghana: Henos Energy Commissions First Drive-Through LPG Cylinder Outlet In Accra

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: Henos Energy Commissions First Drive-Through LPG Cylinder Outlet In Accra
Henos Energy has commissioned what it says is Ghana’s first drive-through cylinder distribution outlet at East Legon Hills in Accra, as the company seeks to make liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution more convenient and support the government’s 24-hour economy initiative. The facility operates under Ghana’s Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), allowing motorists to drive in and exchange empty LPG cylinders for filled ones without leaving their vehicles. The model is intended to reduce waiting times and improve access to LPG, including outside traditional working hours. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Friday, the Director of Gas at the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Akua Ntiwaa Kwakye, said the facility demonstrated how innovation in the downstream petroleum sector could support the government’s 24-hour economy initiative while improving convenience and safety for consumers. The NPA’s Head of Gas and Commercial Regulation, Obed Kraine Boachie, described the facility as a timely innovation that would make LPG cylinder exchange more convenient for consumers. He said the initiative aligned with the government’s 24-hour economy agenda and would contribute to improving LPG accessibility and service delivery. Henos Energy Chief Executive Henry Osei Yaw said the company plans to establish 30 drive-through cylinder distribution outlets across Ghana, starting with five in Accra before expanding to the Northern Region and other parts of the country. He said the concept was developed in response to customer feedback received over the past five years. “Our customers have consistently told us they wanted a complete LPG solution that is accessible and convenient. That is what inspired the drive-through concept,” he said. The outlets will also stock LPG cylinders, regulators and other accessories, Osei Yaw said. He said the company would accept damaged LPG cylinders from customers and replace them with safe cylinders under the CRM. Henos Energy is also developing a digital platform with mobile money service providers that will allow customers to order LPG through a mobile application, he said. Osei Yaw thanked the NPA and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) for their support for the project. The commissioning comes as Ghana seeks to expand access to LPG and improve the efficiency and safety of its downstream petroleum distribution system. Also present at the ceremony were NPA Director of Corporate Affairs Maria Edith Oquaye and Head of Business Development Ossei Yaw Danquah.    
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