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Second control centre would not have prevented Akosombo fire – former TVET deputy director
June 12, 2026
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Second control centre would not have prevented Akosombo fire – former TVET deputy director

Money
Policy

Key Points

  • Ing Peter Antwi Boasiako argues that a proposed second control centre would not have prevented the recent Akosombo substation fire, attributing the fault to a cable failure outside control room intervention.
  • He stated that Ghana's existing power system protections functioned effectively, preventing a nationwide blackout despite the loss of 800-900 megawatts from Akosombo.
  • Antwi acknowledged that maintenance lapses, such as overheating due to loose contacts, likely contributed to the incident.
  • He criticized claims of sabotage as politically motivated and unhelpful, emphasizing that the issue is a serious engineering matter.
  • Antwi disputed recommendations for conventional water sprinklers in control rooms, advocating for gas-based suppression systems and early smoke detection, urging focus on proper engineering solutions.

Why This Matters

This analysis is significant for Ghana as it challenges official recommendations regarding critical power infrastructure, highlighting the importance of accurate technical diagnosis for energy security. Implementing effective, engineering-driven solutions for power transmission and fire safety is crucial to prevent future outages, ensure grid stability, and avoid misdirected public investments that could waste scarce resources.

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