VRA Acquires Land for 20-Megawatt Solar Power Project in Oti Region

Officials from the Volta River Authority (VRA) have secured approximately 20 hectares of land for a 20-megawatt solar power project across three districts in the Oti Region: Krachi West Municipality, Krachi Nchumuru, and Nkwanta North Municipality.

This project is part of the government’s initiative to enhance energy generation in the Oti Region, addressing the region’s frequent electricity shortages and power outages. The unreliable national grid has led many homes and businesses, especially in Kete-Krachi, to depend on generators, inverters, and other alternative power sources.

The Krachi West Hospital recently faced a critical situation where the management threatened to close the mortuary and other departments due to fluctuating power supply.

Mr. Kojo Osei, a VRA engineer, emphasized the importance of this project for improving the quality of life and fostering economic development in the region. He noted that the project would create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.

Deputy Superintendent of Prison (DSP) Daniel Machator (rtd), the Oti Regional Minister, highlighted that the current technical and cost environment supports large-scale solar development in Ghana. He assured that the government fully supports VRA and other entities in expanding renewable energy projects. He added that the combined output of two of the three projects would significantly meet the electricity needs of the districts.

Mr. Machator expressed confidence that the projects would benefit local small and medium-scale enterprises and support other socio-economic activities in the region.

Nana Mprah Besemuna III, President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs and Krachi-Wura, praised the consultation process with traditional leaders before starting the project. He commended the development as thoughtful and inclusive, ensuring the concerns of his people were addressed. He pledged the traditional council’s commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders for the successful implementation of the solar power projects.