Ghana’s nuclear power project takes bold step with SEED Review Mission
Ghana’s nuclear power milestone
The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) together with Nuclear Power Ghana has marked a significant milestone in the country’s journey to integrate nuclear energy into its power grid with the opening of the Site and External Events Design (SEED) Review Mission in Accra. This event, spearheaded by Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, the Director General of GAEC, the book runners of Nuclear Power Ghana, key figures in Ghana’s nuclear power development, signals significant advancement in Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme, underscoring the nation’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable and diversified energy future.
Opening of SEED review mission in Accra
During the opening ceremony, Prof. Dampare acknowledged the vital role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Ghana’s nuclear development process, offering technical guidance and ongoing support. “The SEED Review Mission marks another significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to integrate nuclear power into our energy mix,” he said. Prof. Dampare emphasized that nuclear power would be a transformative component of Ghana’s energy landscape, helping to meet the nation’s growing energy demands, supporting industrial expansion, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
Key figures in Ghana’s nuclear power development
The opening review mission was attended by the Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG), the Director-General of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), distinguished representatives of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), esteemed experts, the Acting Director of Nuclear Power Institute (NPI) at GAEC, and the Deputy Director of Power at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, Ghana. This misission is part of a broader initiative to identify and evaluate potential sites for nuclear power plants in Ghana. As the country transitions into Phase 2 of its Nuclear Power Programme, the focus has shifted to site selection—a crucial step that will guide the design and construction of the country’s first nuclear power facility. The siting activities, conducted with IAEA guidance, have involved comprehensive safety assessments, including geological surveys, seismic studies, and environmental evaluations. The identification of preferred and backup sites marks an important step toward Ghana’s nuclear energy future.
Community engagement and international vendor partnerships
Dr. Stephen Yamoah, Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana, shared that two sites—one preferred and one backup—have been selected as part of the process. Apart from progress made with USA and China in international vendor partnerships, the NPG Boss stressed the importance of further technical studies over the next 18 to 24 months to ensure that these sites meet all necessary criteria for the construction of a nuclear power plant. “Getting the suitable sites is very key to the nuclear power project,” Dr. Yamoah affirmed.
Safety and regulatory compliance in site selection
The commitment to safety and regulatory compliance is a primary concern for the authorities overseeing the nuclear programme. Dr. Nii Allotey, Director General of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), highlighted the importance of safety protocols and security in site selection, stating that the NRA is committed to adhering to international best practices. “The most key thing is to have a management system, something that guides quality assurance,” Dr. Allotey added. His remarks underscore the importance of building public trust in Ghana’s nuclear program, which will be subjected to rigorous international reviews.
Phases of Ghana’s nuclear power programme
Ing. Mumuni Sulley, the Manager of the Engineering Development Department at Nuclear Power Ghana, also provided insights into the evolution of the nuclear programme. He recalled how Ghana’s quest for nuclear power was reignited following the energy crisis known as “Dumsor” and the country’s growing energy needs. He explained the process that led to the selection of the current sites, including regional analyses of geology, seismology, and water availability, as well as a detailed candidate site ranking process. These evaluations are designed to ensure that the selected sites are not only suitable for the construction of a nuclear plant but also meet stringent safety standards.
Site selection process and evaluation
Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme is being carefully developed in phases. In Phase 1, the country focused on establishing the necessary infrastructure, building relevant institutions, and fulfilling international obligations. With the announcement of the government’s commitment to move forward with nuclear power in 2022, Ghana transitioned into Phase 2, which includes the critical work of site selection and detailed site investigation.
History of the SEED Mission
The Sites and External Design Services (SEED) have been offered by IAEA Member States (MSs) under various names and formats since the inception of the IAEA safety standards. Based on available records, the first mission took place in the Philippines in 1978, focusing on the assessment of seismic, volcanic, and geotechnical hazards. Over the past 45 years, these services have been carried out by the Engineering Safety Section (SSS), the International Safety Seismic Center (ISSC), and, currently, the External Events Safety Section (EESS). Reports from over 450 missions have been stored physically and/or digitally in a database since 1978.
The main purpose of the SEED Mission
As part of its statutory functions, the IAEA provides support and technical assistance to Member States to enhance the safety of nuclear installations. Following the revision of the SEED guidelines, the SEED services will adopt an integrated approach, offering a comprehensive package of technical assistance. This package will include various types of services such as SEED Review Missions, SEED Technical Review Missions, SEED Advisory Missions, SEED Post-Event Fact Figures, SEED Workshops, and SEED Training.
Role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
The SEED Review Mission, led by IAEA expert Mr. Kazuyuki Nagasawa, is a key part of this process. This independent review, conducted by external experts, provides an opportunity for feedback and recommendations on Ghana’s approach to site selection. As part of IAEA’s Peer Review Services, the SEED Mission helps ensure that Ghana’s nuclear program adheres to international safety standards, providing transparency and strengthening public confidence in the project.
IAEA collaboration and technical expertise
The IAEA’s collaboration with Ghana is emblematic of the shared objectives between the two organizations. Through this partnership, Ghana is gaining invaluable technical expertise that will help guide the nation through the complex process of nuclear power development. Prof. Dampare expressed his appreciation for this continued support, emphasizing that the IAEA’s role has been instrumental in shaping Ghana’s approach to nuclear energy.
The importance of the SEED Review Mission
“The collective expertise of the IAEA team, coupled with the dedication of our national experts and stakeholders, will yield productive outcomes to enhance our preparedness for Ghana’s Nuclear Power Programme,” he stated. This sentiment was echoed by other experts and stakeholders present at the opening ceremony, all of whom expressed confidence that the ongoing collaboration would help Ghana achieve its goal of a secure, sustainable, and diversified energy future.
Lessons from Ghana’s nuclear power evolution
As Ghana moves forward with its nuclear power plans, the country is also focused on securing community support and engaging with international vendors. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to build the technical and regulatory infrastructure needed to support the safe operation of nuclear energy facilities in the country. With the SEED Review Mission offering crucial technical insights and recommendations, Ghana is poised to make significant strides in its nuclear power program, ensuring a brighter, more energy-secure future for its people.
Global implications for nuclear power in Africa
The journey towards nuclear power in Ghana is not just a technological or infrastructural project but a long-term strategic investment in the nation’s economic, industrial, and environmental future. As the SEED Review Mission continues, the eyes of the world will be on Ghana, as the country sets an example for the responsible and sustainable use of nuclear energy in Africa.
