ECG Investigates Mysterious F!re That Knocked Out Power in Accra

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has launched a formal investigation into a fire that erupted at its Achimota Bulk Supply Point (BSP) over the weekend, disrupting electricity supply to several parts of Accra.

The blaze, which broke out on the morning of Saturday, 4 May, led to widespread power outages in areas including Kanda, Legon, Haatso, Madina, and parts of Cantonments.

The fire, according to ECG officials, was caused by a sudden equipment failure, although the exact source is still under investigation.

Speaking to Channel One TV, Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku, ECG’s General Manager for External Communications, said engineers and safety teams are working to determine the exact cause of the incident.

“No, we’ve not been able to identify the cause of the fire outbreak,” Ayiku explained. “Just after the incident, we launched an investigation, so I’m sure in a few days or weeks, we should be able to come out with a report on the actual cause.”

He added that the damaged earthing transformer was replaced almost immediately after the fire was extinguished. “Currently, we are doing some tests and observing the new earthing transformer that has been installed,” he noted.

Francis Kofi Atsyatsya, ECG’s General Manager for Sub‑Transmission in Accra, said the fire started after a blast was detected on one of the station’s protective devices at around 10:35 a.m.

“We had a blast on our protective device, which caused outages to customers around Kanda, Cantonments, Legon, Haatso, and Madina,” he said. “We called in the fire service to assist us by quenching the fire.”

To ensure safety during firefighting efforts, the entire substation was isolated. After the flames were brought under control, ECG engineers rerouted electricity from nearby substations to restore power.

“By 1:20 p.m., we had been able to transfer affected customers to adjoining bulk supply points, and everyone who experienced the outage was back on supply,” Mr. Atsyatsya confirmed.

Despite the swift response, the incident has raised concerns about infrastructure maintenance and the resilience of Ghana’s electricity distribution network.

ECG has assured the public of its commitment to ensuring reliability and safety and says a full report will be issued once the investigation is complete.