2.9m Smart Meters Need Replacement to Satisfy Market Demand - John Jinapor
Accra, Ghana - 13 Jan, 2025 - Ghana's Energy Minister-designate, John Abdulai Jinapor, has revealed that a staggering 2.9 million smart prepaid meters are in need of immediate replacement, sparking concerns over the limited availability of functional meters.
Speaking during his vetting by Parliament's Appointments Committee, Mr. Jinapor disclosed that nearly three million meters are malfunctioning, creating significant challenges for electricity consumers. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has acknowledged the issue, with plans to replace outdated meters with advanced Smart MMS-compliant prepaid meters.
Mr. Jinapor emphasized the need for a structured approach to improve supply and ensure customers have access to functional meters. He also suggested exploring alternative solutions, such as selling meters directly to consumers, in an effort to address the shortage.
The energy sector's metering challenges have been ongoing, with the ECG issuing public notices regarding emergency updates for prepaid meters.
Mr. Jinapor's pledge to tackle the issue head-on has raised hopes for a resolution to the crisis.
“The ideal way is to get prepared meters, especially smart meters that can mimic all the requirements you need. My meeting with ECG indicates that they have about 5.2 million meters and 4.8 are active. About 3 million of them are not working properly,'' he stated.
“They would need to change a minimum of 2.9 million meters in order to satisfy the market. People want meters, but they are not able to get it. Technology is advancing, so we’re exploring the possibility of selling the meters, letting people buy the meters,'' he added.
Source: Florence Kyei/ Lead News Online
