{
  "id": 2150850,
  "title": "‘We need to investigate the ‘system’—IES calls for probe into recent blackouts",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/20/we-need-to-investigate-the-system-ies-calls-for-probe-into-recent",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-20T14:10:53.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "MyJoyOnline Ghana",
    "slug": "myjoyonline-ghana",
    "url": "https://www.myjoyonline.com/we-need-to-investigate-the-system-ies-calls-for-probe-into-recent-blackouts/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Institute for Energy Security (IES) has called for a comprehensive investigation into two recent nationwide blackouts in Ghana, expressing concerns about systemic weaknesses within the country's electricity supply chain. Research & Energy Security Analyst Smith Boahene stated that the two incidents, which occurred at different points in the power value chain, necessitate a thorough examination to identify their root causes. He explained that the first major outage, which took place around three weeks ago, was caused by a disturbance in the transmission system affecting wide areas of the country. The second disruption, cited by GRIDCo, stemmed from a fault in the Akosombo transmission line. Boahene emphasized that the recurrence of these disruptions may indicate issues such as delayed maintenance, insufficient investment, or outdated equipment. He stressed the importance of the system operator providing clarity on the challenges impacting grid operations. Although the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has allocated approximately GH¢200 million for system upgrades and maintenance, Boahene argued that additional information is required to fully understand the overall condition of the electricity infrastructure. Without a detailed account of the challenges faced within the power sector over the past four to six weeks, stakeholders would find it difficult to accurately assess grid operations. In light of these circumstances, the IES is urging relevant authorities to conduct a detailed investigation into the recent outages and propose concrete measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.",
  "summary": "The Institute for Energy Security (IES) is calling for a thorough investigation into Ghana’s two recent nationwide power outages, saying the incidents raise concerns about persistent weaknesses within the country’s electricity supply chain.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}