The Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), Dr Stephen Yamoah has emphasized the transformative potential of nuclear energy to revolutionise Ghana’s economy, moving beyond traditional perceptions of it solely as a power source.
Addressing journalists, Dr. Yamoah explained that contrary to popular belief, nuclear power is not only for electricity generation.
“Nuclear energy is not just about generating electricity. It is about unlocking opportunities that can revolutionise Ghana’s economy. We are looking at nuclear as an industry that supports and drives other industries along Ghana’s industrialisation agenda.
“NPG’s vision extends beyond simply meeting electricity demands. The organisation aims to leverage nuclear technology to fuel Ghana’s broader economic and industrial transformation, recognizing its potential to drive innovation and growth across multiple sectors,” he stated.
Dr. Yamoah highlighted key areas where nuclear energy can have a profound impact on the Ghanaian economy, including powering and transforming the industrial sector, securing water supply, driving innovation and economic diversification, export potential, regional leadership, boosting agriculture for food security and advancing healthcare.
He further revealed that the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) is already applying nuclear technology in healthcare and agriculture, showcasing the immediate benefits of this energy source.
To realize these benefits, Ghana is actively developing a robust nuclear infrastructure, fostering Public-Private Partnerships to attract investment, strengthening human resource capacity through education and training, and engaging in bilateral cooperation to maximize the technology’s potential.
NPG is actively engaging the public to disseminate information about the transformative potential of nuclear power and address concerns.
This includes social media engagement and upcoming initiatives like a media perception survey on nuclear energy, conducted in collaboration with the University of Media Arts and Communication (UniMAC), and nationwide surveys to enhance nuclear awareness.
Dr. Yamoah urged journalists and media owners to join in the effort to promote nuclear energy, emphasizing the importance of accurate and informed reporting.
Government support for the nuclear agenda is strong, with Dr. Yamoah stating, “The conversation is no longer about if we should have nuclear energy. It’s about when and how we execute it efficiently.”
While the 8th Parliament was unable to consider the Bill on nuclear energy, NPG is committed to presenting it to the 9th Parliament.
A modern nuclear power plant simulator has been installed at the University of Ghana’s School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences, marking a significant step in training Ghanaian professionals for the nuclear sector. This facility is one of only four of its kind in the world.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Bui Power Authority (BPA), Ing Kow Eduakwa Sam, urged all stakeholders to support the adoption of nuclear energy, highlighting its reliability and emphasizing BPA’s commitment to expanding its role in solar power production.
General Secretary of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Kofi Yeboah, pledged the commitment of its members to the nuclear cause, applauding NPG’s efforts to engage journalists from the outset.
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