The Volta River Authority (VRA) has been at the forefront of Ghana’s drive for a reliable, affordable, clean power system since our establishment in 1961.
We have been a key supporter of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), both technically and financially since its establishment. Our commitment to NPG is unwavering, and we will continue to support them until the goal of building a nuclear plant is achieved.
Ghana’s Energy Transition Framework intends to achieve Net
Zero by 2060 by deploying low-carbon technologies across all sectors. Hence, NPG’s work represents a crucial step to achieving our net zero targets by reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating climate change, and ensuring energy security for future generations.
VRA is fully aware of the importance of a diversified energy mix. Our experience in hydro, thermal, and solar power has taught us that each source has unique benefits and challenges.
In the case of nuclear power, it offers a reliable, clean, and scalable solution to our growing energy demands. For Ghana, a country with a rapidly growing population and increasing energy needs, nuclear power can provide a stable and economical source of electricity.
On the other hand, concerns about the cost, long implementation timescale, and safety of neuclear energy are often raised. Addressing these concerns will be critical in gaining public support.
One key requirement of the energy transition is the electrification of end uses such as transportation, heating, and industrial processes. This end-use transition will lead to much
higher demand growth than in recent history and will require a rapid increase in generation capacity. Hence, the challenge of ensuring adequate generation will be much greater, as a lot of investment will be needed.
Our ability to be self-sufficient and have enough generation reserve will also benefit other member countries in the West Africa Regional Energy market, as most countries are net importers. The West Africa Power Pool provides an opportunity to meet the electricity demands of other countries within the subregion and consolidate our position as a net exporter of power.
Let us not underestimate the power of the media in shaping
public perception and understanding of nuclear power. Your
role is crucial, and your accurate reporting can help address
misconceptions, share success stories, and highlight the
benefits of nuclear energy. Your continuous support and participation in events like this are invaluable in our journey toward a reliable, affordable, and clean power system.
For example, in the 1970s and 1980s, France embarked on an ambitious nuclear energy program, which was largely successful due to a well-planned media campaign.
The French government and the nuclear industry worked together to educate the public about the benefits of nuclear energy, including its reliability, cleanliness, and economic advantages. The media campaign included television documentaries, newspaper articles, and public relations efforts, which helped to build public trust and support for nuclear energy.
Today, France is one of the world’s leading users of nuclear energy, with over 70% of its electricity coming from nuclear power plants.
The situation was the same in South Korea, where the media
was pivotal in promoting public understanding and acceptance
of nuclear energy. As a result, public support for nuclear energy in South Korea remains high, with over 80% of the population in favor of nuclear energy.
In this light, your commitment and dedication are key to our collective effort to share Ghana’s nuclear power story and create public awareness about the benefits of nuclear energy. Your role is not just important; it is indispensable.
Again, I commend the organizers of this workshop for bringing together media professionals and stakeholders to discuss the journey so far. Let us continue to work together to share Ghana’s nuclear power story and create public awareness about the benefits of nuclear energy.
