Electricity Generation and Power Sector in Ghana

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and concepts related to electricity generation and the power sector in Ghana.

Hydroelectric Plant

A facility for generating electricity using flowing or falling water.

Volta River Authority (VRA)

Organization responsible for hydroelectric power generation in Ghana, managing construction and supply.

Independent Power Producers (IPPs)

Privately owned companies that generate electricity for sale to utilities and consumers.

Generation Capacity

The maximum amount of electric power a plant can generate under specific conditions.

Thermal Power Plant

A facility that generates electricity using heat energy from fossil fuels or nuclear reactions.

Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG)

The national distribution utility responsible for distributing electricity in Ghana.

Renewable Energy

Energy derived from natural processes that are continuously replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydro.

Capacity Factor

The ratio of actual output of a power plant over a period of time to its potential output.

West African Power Pool (WAPP)

A regional initiative aimed at increasing electricity supply and trading among West African nations.

Photovoltaic (PV) Cells

Devices that convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductor materials.

Nuclear Fission

A reaction in which a heavy nucleus splits into two lighter nuclei, releasing energy.

Penstock

A pipe used to convey water to a hydroelectric turbine.

Step-up Transformer

A device that increases voltage for transmission over long distances.

Step-down Transformer

A device that reduces voltage for distribution to consumers.

Electricity Demand Forecast

Estimation of future electricity needs based on current consumption trends.

Electric Generation System

A combination of electrical components designed to supply, transfer, and use electric power.

Conventional Power Generation

Electricity generated from established methods such as fossil fuels and nuclear energy.

Non-Conventional Power Generation

Electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower.

Electricity Distribution Network

The network that delivers electricity from substations to end-users such as homes and factories.

Power Barge

A floating power station that generates electricity, often using natural gas.