Electricity generation falls 3.99% in July 2026 despite year-on-year growth – PURC

Ghana's electricity generation dipped by 3.99% in July 2026 compared to the previous month, according to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC). Despite the decline, year-on-year growth persisted, with generation 6.20% higher than in July 2025. Seasonal factors, including improved weather conditions, contributed to the reduced demand, though the overall trend showed intermittent drops in production.

Thermal power remained the primary source, constituting 74.33% of total generation, which saw a 4.99% decrease in July but an 11.25% increase compared to July 2025. Hydropower contributed 25.01%, down marginally from the previous month and 7.41% year-on-year. Solar power made up only 0.66% of generation, up significantly from July 2025.

The report emphasized that fuel availability and thermal plant performance were crucial for maintaining reliable electricity supply. Karpower led thermal generation with 311.72 GWh, followed by Sunon Asogli, TICO, and Cenpower. Akosombo hydro plant was the largest hydro contributor. Peak demand reached 3,968 MW, a 6.61% increase year-on-year, while installed capacity stood at 5,818 MW, with dependable capacity at 4,968 MW, resulting in a 24.82% reserve margin.

While this surplus indicated robust system adequacy, the Commission warned that Ghana's heavy reliance on thermal generation exposed the sector to fuel price volatility and supply risks. It recommended increased investment in renewable energy to mitigate these risks and enhance long-term sustainability.