Audio By Carbonatix Energy economist Kofi Ntow Kwaning has urged the government to accelerate the implementation of its planned 1,200 megawatt gas-fired power generation projects, warning that delays could have serious long-term consequences for Ghana’s energy security and economic stability. Speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Monday, April 27, he referenced the 2026 budget statement, particularly page 117, which outlines the government’s intention to expand power generation capacity using natural gas. He noted that the project was expected to commence this year, but progress has been slow as the country moves into the second quarter. "In the 2026 Budget, specifically page 117, I think, it came out that the government is going to build about 1,200 megawatts by using gas, and it was supposed to have started this year, but we are in the second quarter, nothing has started," he said. "So I urge the government to just speed up because if you are not able to do this by 2030, there is going to be a huge ramification for the Ghanaian, especially industries and residential homes." Mr Kwaning stressed the need for government to urgently prioritise commitments outlined in the budget, adding that global volatility in oil and gas markets makes energy planning more critical than ever. He warned that delays could expose the country to external shocks in fuel pricing and availability, potentially affecting power generation and supply reliability. “We should go ahead and do what we promised in the budget and ensure we achieve those results,” he stated. He also referenced ongoing discussions around reforms within the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), including earlier considerations of partial privatisation, noting that improvements in the distribution sector remain key to enhancing efficiency and financial sustainability. DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited. Tags: 2026 budget Gas Kofi Ntow Kwaning DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited. Related to this story Energy economist calls for clear timelines on power restoration Ghana Gas pushes for tariff increase to sustain operations and future investment Libya announces new oil and gas discoveries with three major energy companies Nigerian lawmakers approve increased $49.4bn 2026 budget Middle East tensions: Ghana’s current energy resilience thanks to increased domestic gas production – Mahama Kofi Arko Nokoe queries Energy Minister over gas re-bottling plant in Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira NPA slams gas ‘shortage’ rumours; assures over one month’s cover GNFS contains gas leak after explosion at Buduburam filling station Five killed in gas explosions in Iran, officials say If gov’t walks the talk in budget, 2026 will be a good agriculture year – Dr Opoku Gakpo Latest Stories GoldBod CEO tours royal Ghana Gold Refinery ahead of refining services partnership14 minutes Institute a Grid Expansion Levy now19 minutes Tru-Reset4Growth: Why Ghana must adopt “Big Pushcas” now and revive; The NIB-Nestle Equity Model29 minutes UGCFL26 WEEK 9: Wilmar snatch late winner as Ghana Airports earn first victory31 minutes Claire’s closes all 154 stores in UK and Ireland with loss of 1,300 jobs44 minutes What Is Wrong with Us? When We Build with Pride but Maintain with Neglect46 minutes Ashanti ECG workers demand reinstatement of transferred managers amid worsening infrastructure concerns48 minutes Expedite 1,200 MW gas projects in 2026 budget – Energy economist to gov’t49 minutes Energy economist calls for clear timelines on power restoration50 minutes Three of six escapees rearrested as police intensify hunt for remaining suspects50 minutes KNUST’s Dr Linus Labik secures DARA Research grant as APSU 2002 celebrates academic milestone58 minutes Atuguba allays fears of a Supreme Court ruling annulling all OSP-prosecuted cases1 hour Joshua signs deal to fight Fury – Hearn1 hour Challenging Heights partners Ghana police to rescues 42 girls from human trafficking1 hour Supreme Court OSP ruling could reshape Ghana’s prosecution system – Atuguba1 hour