CNNC in race for Ghana's first nuclear power plant

China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) is said to be competing for Ghana's first nuclear power plant, according to media outlet Caijing.

Herbert Krapa, Ghana's minister of state at the Ministry of Energy, was quoted by Caijing as saying that the country is in the process of selecting a supplier for its first large-scale nuclear power plant, with CNNC actively competing for the contract, having made progress on both technical and financing fronts.

The company has already signed several framework agreements, he said.

Krapa, who visited China's nuclear facilities earlier, expressed confidence in China's track record in nuclear power construction. He emphasized that China is fully capable of supporting both Ghana and Africa in diversifying their electricity supply.

However, he did not disclose the names of other companies also vying for the contract but noted that the results of the selection process are expected to be announced next year.

Ghana plans to initially build one large nuclear power plant, with potential plans to later develop smaller reactors. Krapa said the goal is to have a mix of large and small reactors in the country's energy portfolio over the next 20 years.

Currently, South Africa is the only African country with operational nuclear power plants.

Krapa also expressed Ghana's willingness to expand cooperation with China in the field of clean energy investment.

He welcomed the prospect of Chinese new energy companies entering the Ghanaian market, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between Chinese and Ghanaian companies to enhance Ghana's technological and industrial capabilities.

This partnership could help reduce costs, save time, and accelerate the development of clean energy, he said.