ASEC backs Ghana’s 2,000mw nuclear power plan, urges stronger maintenance culture

The Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC) has welcomed Ghana’s reported cooperation with Russia to develop a 2,000-megawatt nuclear power plant following President John Mahama’s recent visit to the country. The Centre says the proposed facility could strengthen energy security, diversify electricity generation and support industrialisation. ASEC Executive Director, Ing. Justice Ohene-Akoto, says nuclear power could provide reliable electricity to complement the country’s existing hydroelectric and thermal generation. However, he insists the project must form part of a broader energy diversification strategy. “Nuclear power should complement, not replace, Ghana’s renewable energy ambitions. We must continue to invest in solar, wind and battery storage to build a resilient and sustainable electricity system,” he said. ASEC says Ghana’s considerable solar potential remains underutilised and presents opportunities for increased investment in renewable energy. The Centre is also calling for greater involvement of Ghanaian universities, research institutions and engineering companies in the proposed nuclear programme to promote technology transfer, skills development and local industrial capacity. On maintenance, ASEC is warning that Ghana must address weaknesses in its existing energy infrastructure before embarking on the nuclear project. The Centre says the country must move away from reactive maintenance towards preventive and predictive systems, supported by adequate funding, skilled personnel and institutional accountability. Ing. Ohene-Akoto says Ghana’s maintenance culture must improve to support its nuclear ambition. “We cannot aspire to operate a world-class nuclear power facility while maintaining a third-class maintenance culture. Nuclear power requires uncompromising standards of preventive maintenance, operational discipline and safety,” he said. ASEC is urging government to strengthen maintenance across generation facilities, transmission networks, substations and distribution infrastructure to improve reliability. The Centre is also calling for independent nuclear regulation, compliance with International Atomic Energy Agency standards, emergency preparedness and comprehensive radioactive waste management. It further wants government to ensure transparent financing and procurement, assess the long-term cost of the project and strengthen transmission infrastructure to accommodate the additional generation capacity. ASEC says Ghana’s nuclear ambition presents an opportunity to strengthen energy security and advance technological development. However, Ing. Ohene-Akoto says the country must ensure that its ambitions are matched by adequate preparation and accountability. “Safety, maintenance culture, renewable energy development and the national economic interest must remain non-negotiable,” he said. The Centre has urged government to develop an integrated energy roadmap that balances nuclear and renewable energy investments while prioritising safety, local capacity development and long-term sustainability.