Brighter energy future for Ghana: Kofi Asante talks to Mr Jonathan D Quartey, a lecturer in economics at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, about Ghana's efforts to develop its energy sector.(Interview)

KA: GIVEN GHANA'S EXPERIENCE with power shortages, could you tell us what mechanisms have been put in place to develop and maintain energy efficiency in the country?

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JDQ: Currently the Volta River Authority (VRA) and Electricity Co of Ghana (ECG) have instituted a load management programme of 12-hour power cuts for consumers two days in a week. This is to optimise the use of the available water in the Volta reservoir and so forestall any undue drawdown. The gradual removal of the government subsidy on electricity will reduce both physical and economic waste. There are also moves to regulate the importation of secondhand electrical appliances, which are a major source of inefficient use of energy.

In addition, media education is being vigorously pursued about the need for consumers to conserve energy. Educational films, energy conservation commercials on radio and television, workshops and training courses for stakeholders in the …