Ghanaians will bare the full cost of fueling the much-expected power barge running, deputy Power Minister John Jinapor has revealed.
“Everything not just the fuel, the cost of generation, the cost of fuel will be borne by the end user and so all of us have to brace ourselves and ensure that we pay the right tariffs and when we talk about right tariffs we are not talking of milking people, we are not talking about exorbitant price but at least what is fair and what the PURC gives ought to be passed through,” the Minister explained.
The barge, which is being towed at a speed of 5 nautical miles, is expected to arrive at Winneba today [Friday] at 6pm.
The Minister further revealed that “heavy fuel oil and plants and programmes” are underway to ensure that “we get regular supply of fuel for the barges.”
“..we are working with stakeholders to ensure that eventually the barge provides the power required,” he added.
Meanwhile some Ghanaians are kicking against government’s moves to let consumers fuel the barge.
“If I cannot afford I will just resort to the solar system,” a gentleman who spoke on condition of anonymity said.
Another said: “It should be minimal for Ghanaians” if Ghanaians will pay for the barge.
“The economy is too bad for us so we cannot pay,” one other complained.
The two barges, the second of which is expected early next year, is part of the medium term measures adopted by government to mitigate the effects of the power crisis.
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