Enhancing Energy Sector: Ghana Signs Agreement With China For Construction Of HPR1000 Nuclear Power Project

Nuclear Power Ghana Limited and China National Nuclear Corporation Overseas Limited have signed a cooperation and framework agreement for the construction of a HPR 1000 Technology Nuclear Power Project and the upgrade of Ghana’s grid.

This took place on the peripheries of the 26th World Energy Congress in Rotterdam, Netherlands on April 23, 2024.

HPR1000 is an advanced nuclear power plant with the significant feature of an active and passive safety design philosophy, developed by the China National Nuclear Corporation. The agreement is in pursuant to cabinet approval for the inclusion of nuclear in the country’s energy mix.

It is also in furtherance of Ghana’s quest for clean nuclear energy towards net zero.

Witness
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. Dr. Prempeh said nuclear power stands as a reliable, efficient, and environmentally-friendly source of energy, offering a stable supply of electricity to power our industries, businesses, homes and indeed, the West African Power Pool.
“It is a testament to President Akufo-Addo’s vision for a diversified energy portfolio that prioritizes clean and sustainable sources of power,” he said.

Commitment
Dr. Prempeh noted that the agreement represents a profound commitment to advancing Ghana’s energy sector, ensuring sustainable development, and meeting the growing demand for electricity in the country.
“Ghana is at a crucial juncture in its journey towards economic prosperity, and thus, the integration of nuclear power into our energy mix will play a pivotal role in achieving our goals,” he stated.

Use of nuclear energy
The use of nuclear energy for electricity generation began in the late 1950s and went through several phases over the subsequent half century.

Today, nuclear energy contributes 11% of the world’s electricity, with over 435 power reactors in 31 countries.