Independent Power Producer Sunon Asogli Power Ghana Limited has reported that it has not received any part of the $30 million directed by the Ministry of Finance for release by the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD), despite government assurances.
This update follows Sunon Asogli’s recent shutdown of its 560MW power plant due to an outstanding debt of $259 million owed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
In an interview with Citi Business News, Dr Elikplim Apetorgbor, Business Development Manager at Sunon Asogli Power Ghana Limited explained that efforts to settle the debt in instalments have not yet produced any tangible results.
“We received notification from the Controller and Accountant General’s Department in the first week of our shutdown. They informed us that the Ministry of Finance authorized them to pay us $30 million. But they are having some challenges.
“It was in the week of salary payments and they have to split this payment into five or six tranches. We are in November, and not even one tranche has been received but the assurance was that they will try and pay one tranche in their week of salary payment and the rest will come before the end of October. Here we are, not even one of the tranches has been paid.
“It is unfortunate the Ministry of Finance has been reduced to an official propaganda office. It is such a sensitive office to be used for that. I will advise that whatever information the Finance Minister provides or shares with the public, kindly double check to ensure that you are dealing with the right information,” he said.
Ghana’s energy sector has been grappling with persistent debt issues, affecting several Independent Power Producers (IPPs) who supply electricity to the national grid.
Stakeholders in the energy sector have called for greater transparency and timely payments to prevent future shutdowns and maintain energy stability in the country.
