Asiedu Nketiah to chair board of Bui Power Authority

Minister of Energy Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah says government is determined to ensure that challenges within the power sector are brought under control.

According to the Minister, the annual energy demand which stands at 12 percent -- up from 10 percent-- presents enormous challenges which must be tackled head-on if the country is to attain a marked level of development.

Mr. Buah was speaking at the inauguration of the boards of the Bui Power Authority and the Energy Commission yesterday at the Ministry.

Chairman of the Bui Power Authority, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, said the board will ensure the 400 megawatt facility's contribution to the country's energy supply is enhanced.

"We will put in efficient operation capacity so the nation benefits from its investment," Mr. Nketiah said after being sworn in.

He said government must harness the capacity of the artisans used in construction of the dam for other hydroelectric dam projects, rather than allow such expertise to dissipate.

Other members of the board include Theresa Nyarko-Fofie, Kwame Twum Boafo, Joseph Akati Saaka, Kwasi Agyeman Gyan-Tutu, Dr. Kofi Nketsia Afful and Jabesh Amissah Arthur.

President John Mahama last year inaugurated the US$622million Bui Hydroelectric Dam, which will contribute a further 400MW to the country’s energy supply.

The Minister also inaugurated a six-member board of the Energy Commission headed by Dr. Kwame Ampofo. The other members of the board are Dr. Syvana Rudith King, Innocent K.A. Akwayena, Dr. Isaac F. Mensa-Bonsu, Stephen Duodu and Dr. Ofosu Ahenkorah.