南非国际事务研究所-加纳的核能（英文）-2021.5-49页_1mb

Summary of Nuclear Energy in Ghana

Core Content

This report provides an overview of Ghana's nuclear energy development, highlighting its historical context, current electricity challenges, and the rationale for pursuing nuclear power as part of its energy strategy. It outlines the legal and institutional framework for nuclear governance and discusses the country's progress in establishing a nuclear power programme.

Main Reasons for Pursuing Nuclear Power

• Energy Demand and Supply Crisis: Ghana has faced recurring electricity shortages for decades, which have had severe economic consequences, including GDP losses and production disruptions.
• Economic Transformation: The government seeks to use nuclear power to support industrialisation and economic development, especially as the population is projected to reach 38 million by 2030.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Nuclear power is seen as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy.
• Energy Security: With current electricity sources (hydropower, thermal, renewables) proving unreliable and insufficient, nuclear power is viewed as a viable alternative to ensure a stable and secure energy supply.

Key Information

Electricity Situation

• Historical Context: Ghana's electricity sector began in the early 1900s with diesel generator plants. Hydropower was introduced in 1972 with the completion of the Akosombo Dam.
• Electricity Crises: Major shortages occurred in 1983-4, 1997-8, 2003, 2006-7, and most notably from 2011-2017.
• Economic Impact: In 2014, the daily loss in production due to power shortages was estimated at $2.1 million, equating to $680 million or 2% of GDP.
• Access Rate: As of 2019, Ghana's electricity access rate reached 85%, one of the highest in sub-Saharan Africa. However, universal access is still not expected by the end of 2020.

Nuclear Energy Evolution

• Early Interest: Ghana's interest in nuclear technology dates back to the 1950s, with initial research at the University of Ghana, Legon.
• Kwabenya Nuclear Reactor Project (1961-1966): A major initiative under President Nkrumah's government, but it never materialised.
• Recent Revival: The government has renewed its commitment to nuclear energy, aiming to build a nuclear power plant by 2030.
• IAEA Milestones Approach: Ghana is following the IAEA's framework for establishing a nuclear programme, which includes three phases: preparation, implementation, and operation.

Nuclear Governance and Legal Framework

• Nuclear Regulatory Act No. 895 (2015): Establishes the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), focusing on nuclear safety, radiation protection, security, and non-proliferation.
• Legal Commitments: Ghana has joined several international nuclear agreements and initiatives, demonstrating a responsible approach to nuclear energy.
• Institutional Development: The government has formulated policies, enacted laws, and worked to institutionalise nuclear governance structures.

Nuclear Power Development Status

• Financing: Ghana has approached Russia, China, and South Korea for financial and technical support, as building a nuclear power plant is estimated to cost $8–10 billion.
• Public Engagement: The government is conducting awareness campaigns to secure public support for the nuclear programme.
• Infrastructure Review: The IAEA has conducted two INIR missions in the past three years to assess Ghana's nuclear infrastructure development.

Uranium Sector and Fuel Cycle

• Uranium Conversion: Ghana has been involved in the conversion of Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) to Low Enriched Uranium (LEU), which is necessary for peaceful nuclear applications.
• Uranium Reserves: While not explicitly detailed, Ghana is actively involved in the uranium sector and is working to ensure a sustainable fuel cycle.

Nuclear Power Issues

• Funding and Financing: Significant investment is required, and Ghana is seeking international partners to support this.
• Stakeholder Involvement: The government is engaging civil society, private sector, and international bodies to ensure transparency and public support.
• Regulatory Challenges: There is a need for strong, transparent regulatory frameworks to drive competition and ensure reliable energy supply.

Non-Power Nuclear Applications

• Ghana Research Reactor-1 (GHARR-1): Provides nuclear research capabilities and supports various applications.
• Gamma Irradiation Facility (GIF): Used for sterilisation and preservation of food and medical products.
• Radiation Therapy: Includes External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) and Brachytherapy equipment, which are critical for healthcare.
• Radiological Imaging: Technologies like MRI and CT are supported by nuclear applications, enhancing medical diagnostics.
• Current Impact: These non-power applications have already positively impacted millions of Ghanaians in healthcare and research.

Conclusion

Ghana is at a critical juncture in its energy development, with nuclear power emerging as a strategic option to address long-term electricity demand and supply challenges. The country is approaching nuclear energy in a responsible and structured manner, guided by the IAEA's Milestones Approach and supported by international cooperation. While progress has been made, the successful implementation of a nuclear power plant will require sustained financial investment, public engagement, and robust regulatory frameworks. The development of nuclear energy in Ghana is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in terms of economic growth, energy security, and climate change mitigation.