Appolonia, the mixed-use urban development at Oyibi near Accra, has inaugurated its first power substation expected to serve the first 4,000 residents at the project site.
The privately funded substation, which is specially designed to withstand heavy rains and flooding, is one of the first of its kind in the north of Accra.
The substation’s 20/26MW power transformer was manufactured in India by Crompton Greaves Limited and designed in collaboration with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) – a demonstration of a form of public-private partnership.
Speaking at the inauguration, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Kwabena Mintah Akandoh lauded Appolonia and its lead investor, Rendeavour, for the initiative – emphasizing the importance of the private sector to national development.
“A mixed-use development enables the creation of an attractive and sustainable environment that promotes economic activity, vitality, social equity and environmental quality. It has been envisaged to facilitate the realization of Ghana’s urban policy which encourages the development of new urban centers to help decongest existing urban areas” he noted.
Lead U.S. investor in Appolonia and a Director of Rendeavour, Frank Mosier also hailed the co-operation among stakeholders in the initiative.
Mr. Mosier said, “What we see today is a testament to the partnership. This important investment has only been possible through close co-ordination between the Ghanaian government, our partners in the community and the private sector.”
“We look forward to continued relationships with all Appolonia stakeholders related to Appolonia and welcome further involvement from the private sector in achieving further development at the site,” Mr. Mosier continued.
CEO of Appolonia, Anthony Okyere also noted that the station will deliver power to more than 15,000 people and 4,000 homes within five years and nearly 90,000 people in total over 15 years.
Aside from residents, the substation will also serve commercial areas at Appolonia, such as retail, schools and health facilities.
“After working with the Electricity Company of Ghana and Crompton Greaves Limited, we are proud that the first of the three power substations has been acquired, installed and readied to supply electricity to Appolonia.
Concluding this important step is proof of our commitment to this project,” he added. .
