GHANA JOINS AFRICA’S NUCLEAR RACE, SETS 2027 START DATE FOR FIRST NUCLEAR POWER PLANT
The country has identified two potential sites in the Western and Central Regions and is in advanced preparatory stages, with international firms competing to build the facility as part of a major energy diversification push.
Ghana is advancing plans to build its first nuclear power plant, targeting 2027 for construction as part of a strategic move to diversify its energy mix and secure a long-term electricity supply.
The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has identified two potential sites—one in the Western Region for a large-scale plant and another in the Central Region for a smaller industrial facility—with preparatory work already underway.
Dr Robert Sogbadji, a key official at the ministry, confirmed the timeline during the 9th Ghana Energy Awards, stating, “Steps are ongoing to ensure that we acquire that land, and roughly by 2027, we should be able to cut sod for construction.”
Ghana’s nuclear ambitions place it among a growing number of African nations, including Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria- turning to nuclear energy to address persistent power deficits and support industrialisation.
While Ghana has not yet announced a construction partner, several international firms are reportedly competing for the contract, including France’s EDF, U.S.-based NuScale Power, China National Nuclear Corporation, South Korea’s Kepco, and Russia’s Rosatom.
In February 2025, Ghana hosted its first International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Site and External Events Design Review mission, which endorsed the country’s site selection process and adherence to IAEA safety standards.
The nuclear initiative is part of Ghana’s broader goal to achieve 90% nationwide electricity access within six months and transition toward a more sustainable and reliable energy portfolio.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
