Capstone Project
RESEARCH ON A STUDY ON FACTORS AFFECTING ENERGY INSECURITY IN GHANA – WEST AFRICA: A CASE STUDY ON GHANA NATIONAL GAS COMPANY LIMITED (GNGC)
by Francis Antwi Boasiako
Project Overview
Energy security remains a critical component of economic growth, industrial development, and social well-being. Despite Ghana’s significant natural gas resources and investments in energy infrastructure, the country continues to experience recurring electricity supply challenges, operational disruptions, and energy insecurity. These challenges have raised concerns regarding the reliability and sustainability of Ghana’s energy sector, particularly the role of Ghana National Gas Company Limited (Ghana Gas) in ensuring a stable supply of natural gas for power generation.
This study investigates the key factors contributing to energy insecurity within Ghana Gas and the broader energy sector. The research examines how financial instability, infrastructure deficits, governance weaknesses, technical and operational failures, and environmental risks affect the reliability of gas supply and electricity generation in Ghana. Particular attention is given to the impact of sector debt, aging infrastructure, institutional inefficiencies, climate-related risks, and maintenance challenges on energy security.
A mixed-methods research approach was adopted, utilizing secondary data obtained from government reports, academic literature, energy sector publications, and institutional reports. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were used to identify patterns, trends, and relationships among the major factors affecting energy security.
The study found that financial constraints and infrastructure deficiencies are the most significant contributors to energy insecurity. Additional challenges include governance issues, political interference, operational inefficiencies, and environmental threats that collectively undermine the effectiveness of Ghana’s energy system. These challenges have contributed to recurring power outages, reduced industrial productivity, increased operational costs, and declining public confidence in the energy sector.
The project highlights the need for infrastructure modernization, financial reforms, improved institutional coordination, enhanced technical capacity, and increased investment in renewable energy sources. It also provides practical recommendations for policymakers and industry stakeholders aimed at strengthening Ghana’s energy security, improving operational reliability, and supporting sustainable national development.
Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of energy insecurity in Ghana and offers strategic solutions for improving the performance and sustainability of Ghana National Gas Company Limited and the country’s energy sector as a whole.