The Volta River Authority (VRA) is exploring plans to convert the Akosombo Hydroelectric Dam into a massive power battery reserve, a move aimed at modernising Ghana’s energy infrastructure amid the global shift from hydro to thermal and renewable energy.
Speaking to Parliament’s Energy Committee during a monitoring visit on Saturday, September 27, VRA’s Acting CEO, Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, explained that the project would allow the dam to store renewable energy for use during peak demand hours.
“As we transition to renewables, which are interruptible, we need ways to manage supply. During the daytime, solar power runs; in the evenings, it’s off. Using Akosombo as a battery will allow us to store energy efficiently and avoid the high costs of conventional batteries,” he said.
Ing. Obeng-Kenzo added that the initiative could eventually serve the broader West African region, leveraging the country’s abundant water resources to support generation and stabilise energy prices. “This is a study we are currently carrying out,” he noted.
Dam Integrity and Lifespan Boosted
The VRA boss assured the committee that Ghana’s major hydro facilities remain in excellent condition. He revealed that retrofitting and international assessments have extended the lifespan of the Akosombo and Akuse dams by 40 and 30 years respectively.
“We conduct five-year dam assessments with global experts. The last visit was three years ago, and the next is scheduled in two years. Their recommendations have helped us secure the long-term viability of these critical assets,” he stated.
Energy Committee Nationwide Tour
The Energy Committee, led by Chairman Hon. Emmanuel Bedzrah, is on a three-day tour of key power sector institutions, including GRIDCo, PURC, ECG, the Energy Commission, and VRA. The tour aims to assess Ghana’s power sector and provide Parliament with recommendations to strengthen legislation, policies, and infrastructure. The inspections will conclude with visits to the Akosombo, Akuse, and Bui dams.
Source – My News Ghana
