Akosombo Dam to remain operational despite reduction in water levels

The Akosombo Dam will not be shut down in spite of the accute reduction in water levels. This is according to the Volta River Authority (VRA).

The water level as at yesterday stood at 239.94 feet just below the required minimum operating level of 240 feet.

There has been fears the continues drop in water level could force a shutdown of the dam and further worsening the current crisis.

The Akosombo dam currently sheds some 500 megawatts of power.

In an interview with Joy News, Deputy Engineer in charge of operations at the VRA Richard Badger allayed fears the dam will be shutdown.

He said thermal complements run the hydro dam during periods where the water levels are low.

This according to him is done regularly to ensure that the water in the dam does not run out completely and prevents a total shut down.

In a related development, commercial production of electricity at the Kpone thermal plant is expected to begin in August.

This will be preceded by a series of test of various components of the plant.

The plant at full production is expected to add about 200 megawatts of power to the national grid.


Source: Ghana | Myjoyonline