Karikari Kwagyan Achireko, Director, Corporate Strategy, ASEC
The Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC) has called for increased cross-representation on the boards of key entities within the energy value chain to enhance governance, transparency, and operational efficiency.
According to ASEC, diversifying board membership with representatives from entities like the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) and the Volta River Authority (VRA) would ensure that diverse technical perspectives inform sector-wide decisions.
“Cross-representation allows for firsthand insights into challenges, improving governance and operational effectiveness,” the think tank stated.
ASEC also stressed the need for the government to prioritise internal expertise within the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), especially as discussions regarding its privatisation advance.
“It would have been prudent for the Ministry of Energy to draw from the expertise of past managing directors and senior directors with decades of experience. These professionals have a deep understanding of operational dynamics, regulatory challenges, and financial structuring,” ASEC noted.
Another area requiring reform, according to ASEC, is the cash waterfall mechanism, which ensures equitable revenue distribution across the energy sector.
The think tank argues that including GRIDCo and VRA representatives on the ECG board would improve revenue collection and payment schedules, reducing disputes and delays. The presence of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) could also help ensure that tariffs reflect operational costs and investment needs.
“Direct representation would allow for the prompt resolution of financial concerns, while the inclusion of consumer advocacy groups on the board would strengthen accountability in addressing service quality and affordability issues,” said the statement, signed by ASEC’s Director of Corporate Strategy, Karikari Kwagyan Achireko.
ASEC further highlighted the importance of aligning infrastructure investments with national energy goals to prevent resource misallocation and operational bottlenecks.
“For instance, when ECG plans network expansions, GRIDCo and VRA representatives can ensure that upgrades are compatible with existing generation and transmission capacities, avoiding financial losses and service disruptions,” the think tank explained.
ASEC also advocated for private sector involvement in energy sector governance, arguing that it could introduce innovative financing models and promote the integration of renewable energy into Ghana’s national grid.
The think tank concluded that cross-representation in domestic energy sector governance is essential for achieving transparency, accountability, and efficiency. It stressed that prioritising seasoned professionals within ECG would ensure leadership continuity and better oversight of any transition process.
“A governance framework that embraces cross-representation will benefit policymakers, investors, and consumers, ensuring a stable and transparent energy sector that supports Ghana’s long-term development goals,” ASEC stated.