By: Maurice Duncan
The Area Engineer of the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) responsible for the Upper East and North East regions, Ing. Ishmeal Ben-Kwofie, has attributed some of the recent power outages in parts of the Upper East Region to disruptions caused by rainfall, while assuring customers of ongoing efforts to improve electricity supply.
Speaking on the BlueWaves Breakfast Show on BlueWaves Radio 93.7 FM, Ing. Ben-Kwofie was responding to growing concerns from residents over frequent power interruptions and the challenges associated with accessing reliable electricity in parts of the region.
He explained that the rainfall experienced on Tuesday affected some components of the electricity distribution system, particularly in the Zuarungu area, resulting in power supply disruptions.
According to him, the impact of the rain on parts of the distribution network contributed to the outages experienced by customers, although NEDCo continues to work to address such challenges and restore reliable supply.
NEDCo to Commission New Transformers
As part of measures to improve electricity supply, Ing. Ben-Kwofie disclosed that the company is expected to commission some newly installed transformers in selected communities.
He indicated that the commissioning exercise is expected to take place next week, expressing hope that the new transformers would help improve power distribution and address some of the electricity supply challenges facing affected communities.
The intervention, he explained, forms part of efforts to strengthen the distribution network and improve service delivery to customers.
He appealed to electricity consumers to exercise patience and bear with NEDCo as the company works to address the challenges affecting power supply in the region.
Explains Challenges With Planned and Unplanned Outages
Addressing concerns about the frequent interruptions in electricity supply without prior notice, Ing. Ben-Kwofie explained that NEDCo experiences both planned and unplanned outages.
He noted that while some outages are scheduled to allow engineers to undertake maintenance and other technical works on the distribution network, others occur unexpectedly due to faults and unforeseen circumstances.
He admitted that there are instances where the company faces difficulties informing customers ahead of planned interruptions, particularly when operational circumstances make advance communication challenging.
He acknowledged the inconvenience these interruptions cause consumers but maintained that some outages are necessary to enable engineers to undertake essential works and maintain the electricity distribution system.
NEDCo Addresses Challenges With Customer Helpline
The Area Engineer also responded to complaints from customers who claim they frequently call NEDCo’s customer service helpline without receiving responses.
He explained that the helpline sometimes experiences heavy call traffic, making it difficult for customer service representatives to respond to every call immediately.
He, however, encouraged customers who are unable to reach the company through its telephone helpline to consider sending messages through NEDCo’s WhatsApp communication channel.
According to him, customers can use the alternative communication platform to report electricity-related challenges and seek assistance from the company.
Ing. Ben-Kwofie reiterated the need for customers to remain patient and cooperate with NEDCo as it works to improve electricity distribution and address concerns raised by consumers across the Upper East and North East regions.
His engagement on the BlueWaves Breakfast Show provided an opportunity for residents to raise concerns about persistent power outages and receive explanations from the electricity distributor on the challenges and interventions being considered to improve service delivery.
Source: Mybluewavesonline.Com/ Maurice Duncan/ Bolgatanga
