Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh and Chairman of CNNC, Mr. Yu Jianfeng
On the sidelines of the 26th World Energy Congress in Rotterdam, Netherlands, Nuclear Power Ghana Limited and China National Nuclear Corporation Overseas Limited (CNNC) signed a cooperation agreement and framework for the construction of the HPR 1000 Technology Nuclear Power Project and the upgrade of the Ghana grid .
This is in line with Cabinet approval to include nuclear in Ghana’s energy mix.
Ghana renewed its nuclear program in 2008 to meet the country’s energy demand.
Based on the support of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), some countries have expressed interest in helping Ghana develop its Nuclear Energy Programme.
This includes China, which has a reciprocal diplomatic relationship with Ghana, notably their longstanding cooperation in the energy and trade sectors.
Speaking at a pre-agreement signing ceremony, the Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, said this agreement represents a deep commitment to promote Ghana’s energy sector, ensure sustainable development and meet the growing demand for electricity in the country.
βGhana is at a critical juncture in its journey to economic prosperity and as such, the integration of nuclear power into our energy mix will play a central role in achieving our goals,β he said.
Nuclear energy, according to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, is a reliable, efficient and environmentally friendly source of energy, offering a stable supply of electricity to power industries, businesses and homes.
“It is a testament to President Akufo-Addo’s vision for a diversified energy portfolio that prioritizes clean and sustainable energy sources,” he added.
CNNC President Mr. Yu Jianfeng, speaking at the ceremony, praised the Minister for his leadership saying “whenever we meet the Minister, we meet new energy and so I have no doubt that this agreement will bear fruit.”
The Government of Ghana continues to support the Ghana Nuclear Power Programme, which is under the Energy Directorate of the Ministry of Energy, by participating, funding and making various contributions towards the achievement of the programme’s objectives.