Ghana plans 1,200 megawatts state-owned thermal power plant in 2026

Ghana’s government will begin constructing a 1,200-megawatt state-owned thermal power plant in 2026, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson said Wednesday, a move aimed at boosting energy capacity and security.

The facility is expected to utilise an additional 150 million standard cubic feet of gas per day from the OCTP (Offshore Cape Three Points) partners and GPP 2 project, supporting both industrial and residential demand.

“Beginning 2026, Government will commence the construction of a 1,200-megawatt state-owned thermal power plant to offtake the additional 150 million standard cubic feet of gas per day from the OCTP partners and GPP 2,” Forson said during the presentation of the 2026 budget in Parliament.

The project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to strengthen energy infrastructure, improve reliability, and ensure accessibility amid rising electricity demand.

Forson noted that, in the medium term, gas production from OCTP and Jubilee partners could generate up to 1,200 megawatts.

The announcement follows the recent commissioning of the 200 MW Bridge Power Plant, which is expected to supply over 7% of Ghana’s dependable thermal power.

Authorities have also emphasised continued collaboration with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to address sector financial challenges.

Ghana’s energy sector has faced persistent supply constraints, partly due to fluctuating gas supply and operational challenges at existing plants.