Gov't Seeks $29.4m. For West Africa Power Pool

Government is seeking an amount of $29.4 million from the International Development Association (IDA) to finance the first phase of the inter-zonal transmission hub project of the West Africa Power Pool (APL3) programme.

A financing agreement between the Republic of Ghana and the IDA for an amount of sixteen million Special Drawing Rights (SDR16.0 million), equivalent to the $29.4 million, was yesterday laid before Parliament.

The West African Power Pool (WAPP) was established in December 1999 during the 22nd Summit of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government to help address the issue of power supply deficiency within West Africa.

It is to assure citizens of ECOWAS member states of stable and reliable electricity supply at affordable cost and improve cross-border and reliable flows of electricity in member states.

The WAPP is also to develop clear and measurable standards to harmonise electricity planning and operation of pooled-electric systems in member states.

WAPP, a tool for the region to solve its electricity problems, involves 15 countries. It is aimed at working to increase energy supply, establish a framework to promote investment in the sector and provide lower costs and improve electricity reliability.

It was laid before Parliament by Dominic Azumah, Minister of State at the presidency on behalf of Dr Kwabena Duffuor, Minister of Finance & Economic Planning. 

The WAPP is expected to increase the level of power supply in the region through the implementation of priority generation and transmission projects as well as integrate the national power systems operations into a unified regional market.

By Awudu Mahama