Sunon Asogli Power Ghana Limited, an independent power producer, has denied receiving any part of the $30 million that Ghana’s Ministry of Finance claims to have directed for release by the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD). The funding was reportedly intended to address the government’s outstanding debt to the company, but Sunon Asogli insists no payment has yet been made.
This development comes amid heightened concerns over Sunon Asogli’s financial stability and operational capabilities, as the company recently shut down its 560MW power plant. The shutdown, according to company officials, was a response to a $259 million debt owed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), which has hindered the company’s capacity to maintain efficient operations.
In an interview with Citi FM, Dr. Elikplim Apetorgbor, Sunon Asogli’s Business Development Manager, outlined the company’s unsuccessful attempts to resolve the debt through installment payments. He also expressed disappointment over the Ministry of Finance’s assurance regarding the $30 million payment, saying it has yet to materialize.
“We received notification from the Controller and Accountant General’s Department in the first week of our shutdown, informing us that the Ministry of Finance had authorised a $30 million payment to us. However, they explained they faced challenges, particularly as it coincided with their week of salary payments,” Dr. Apetorgbor explained.
“The payment was supposed to be split into five or six tranches, with the first tranche promised by the end of October. We are now in November, and not even a single tranche has been received.”
Dr. Apetorgbor criticised the Ministry of Finance’s handling of the issue, suggesting that the office has been “reduced to an official propaganda tool.”
He advised the public to verify information shared by the Finance Minister, adding, “It is such a sensitive office to be used for this kind of situation. I would urge people to double-check whatever information is shared to ensure its accuracy.”
The company’s financial challenges reflect broader issues within Ghana’s power sector, as producers face delayed payments, raising questions about future energy supply stability in the country.
Source:TheDotNews