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14 Jun 2024 | 02:27 PM UTC

Ghana: Power outages likely nationwide through at least July 4

Power outages likely across Ghana, including Accra, through at least July 4.

Warning

Power outages are likely nationwide, including in Accra, through at least July 4. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) have announced that some areas have experienced outages since July 12. Officials attribute the disruptions to a decrease in Nigeria's gas supply caused by maintenance activities. The maintenance operations are scheduled to last for at least three weeks.

Disruptions to business and telecommunications, including cellular and mobile services, may occur. Transport disruptions are likely in areas with malfunctioning traffic signals. Power outages could result in the temporary unavailability of essential services, such as ATMs and fuel stations. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages. Protests in response to the outages could occur. Celebrities and political activists gathered at the University of Ghana in Accra on June 8 over poor electricity supply. Possible demonstration locations include ECG and GRIDCo facilities and government buildings.

Develop or review business continuity plan (BCP) sections regarding utility outages. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply. Invest in generators and, if applicable, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units. Power laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other business or travel-critical appliances regularly. Monitor announcements from the utility. Plan for business disruptions and travel delays due to traffic congestion during outages. For safety reasons, monitor generators while they are operating due to potential fires. Unplug appliances and electronic equipment to protect against surge damage when power resumes. Avoid all protests.