VRA Chief Executive Speaks on Ghana's 24-Hour Economy

The Volta River Authority (VRA) Chief Executive, Mr Edward E. Obeng-Kenzo, has emphasized the need for reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to drive the successful implementation of Ghana's 24-Hour Economy policy.

The 24-Hour Economy policy aims to reposition Ghana as a competitive, industrial, and export-driven economy. However, Mr Obeng-Kenzo stressed that factories, hospitals, transport systems, data centers, and businesses cannot operate continuously without dependable electricity.

Speaking at the second Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE)-Professor Douglas Boateng Lecture Series in Accra, Mr Obeng-Kenzo noted that reliable power remains the lifeblood of every successful economy. He further stated that the VRA has played a central role in Ghana's energy development for more than six decades.

The VRA has evolved from its initial hydroelectric generation at Akosombo and Kpong to include thermal and renewable energy sources, with a current installed capacity of about 2,547 megawatts. Mr Obeng-Kenzo said the Authority is investing in renewable energy, modernizing its generation facilities, and deploying smart technologies to build a cleaner, more resilient, and reliable power system.

Mr Obeng-Kenzo reaffirmed the Authority's commitment to powering Ghana's economic transformation, stating, "Just as the Volta River continues to flow day and night, season after season, so too must our commitment to powering Ghana's development remain unwavering. People may rest, but progress cannot sleep; neither can power."

In a welcome address, the President of the Ghana Institution of Engineering, Mr Ludwig Annang Hesse, said the lecture series aims to examine how the experience, infrastructure, and strategic position of the VRA can support Ghana's transition to a productive 24-hour economy and a more competitive industrial future.

Mr Obeng-Kenzo pointed out that the energy sector is no longer just a support system for economic development but has become a key driver of industrialization, job creation, investment, and regional integration. He emphasized the need for significant investment in grid modernization, battery storage systems, digital monitoring technologies, and other critical infrastructure to meet future energy demand.

The VRA Chief Executive's emphasis on the need for stable electricity highlights the importance of a reliable power supply in driving economic growth and development. As Ghana continues to implement its 24-Hour Economy policy, the role of the VRA and other energy stakeholders will be crucial in ensuring a stable and efficient power supply.

Source: Ghanaian Times