By Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo, GNA
Akosombo, April 24, GNA -The Government has set up a seven-member committee to investigate the recent explosion and fire outbreak at the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) Akosombo Substation on the afternoon of Thursday, April 23, 2026, which caused extensive damage to the facility.
Mr John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, addressing the media after inspecting the site, described the incident as serious and unusual, stressing the need for a thorough investigation to determine the root cause.
Mr Jinapor said the committee, to be chaired by Dr William Mumuni, a former GRIDCo Chief Executive Officer and current Board Chairman of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), would include experts from the Ghana National Fire Service, National Security, the Energy Commission and other relevant institutions.
The Minister indicated that the committee would have to complete its work within two to three weeks and present a detailed report.
He noted that although the explosion destroyed parts of the facility, the switchyard remained intact due to the design of the building, which contained the impact of the explosion.
Mr Jinapor said the immediate priority was the restoration of power, adding that engineers were working around the clock to restore supply through alternative arrangements.
He explained that efforts were underway to bring at least one unit back on stream by the end of the day, with teams working in shifts to ensure continuous progress.
“Once the first unit is restored, it will pave the way for the restoration of the remaining units,” he said, noting that the affected facility contributes about 1,000 megawatts to the national grid.
Mr Jinapor further disclosed that a nationwide audit of all energy installations would commence Monday to assess system readiness and prevent future occurrences.
The Minister assured the public that the government was working closely with relevant agencies to restore power and stabilise the system as quickly as possible.
He added that parallel investigations by institutions such as National Security and the Ghana National Fire Service would not be affected by the committee’s work.
GNA
Edited by Benjamin Mensah
24 April 2026