In an unexpected turn of events, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has reported that crows are frequently causing power outages in the Ashanti Region.
According to the Ashanti Sub-Transmission Region of ECG, the birds have mostly been attacking installations, leading to frequent outages and operational challenges that are affecting consumers across several districts.
“As a division responsible for restoring the system to its original state, we will continue to improve our efforts to ensure uninterrupted service,” Mr. Collins Manu, Head of Public Relations for the Ashanti Sub-Transmission, noted.
A recent report from the team indicated that the most affected areas include Barekese in Atwima Nwabiagya North, Akyawkrom in Ejisu, Effiduase and Kumawu in Sekyere East and Sekyere Kumawu, and Bekwai.
Other places include New Edubiase and Manso Nkwanta in Amansie East, Adansi South, and Amansie West, respectively.
The report further revealed that at least 92 nests were found on the Akyawkrom-Kuntenase-Bekwai ECG transmission lines alone during an inspection exercise.
The company explained that the nests, often built with metallic materials, pose a major hazard by causing electrical faults and equipment damage.
To resolve the issue, senior ECG officials, including Ing. Frederick Kwabena Bediako, General Manager of Special Projects at Head Office, and Ing. Daniel Mensah Asare, General Manager of Ashanti South, have been inspecting the affected areas to find a lasting solution to the problem.
Below are some of the measures ECG is undertaking to curb the problem.
- Physical barriers like bird spikes, insulated covers, and perch deterrents
- Nesting deterrents, including routine nest removal and applying non-conductive materials
- Improved system design, such as increased conductor spacing and enhanced insulation
- Behavioural deterrents, including distress calls, reflective surfaces, and predator decoys