Empowering Ghana: The Epicenter of Nuclear Workforce Development
Ghana's ambitious journey into the world of nuclear energy is underpinned by a multi-faceted approach, combining international cooperation, a commitment to IAEA standards, and a wealth of experience. This holistic strategy positions Ghana to not only achieve its clean energy goals but also emerge as a regional leader in nuclear workforce development and best practices.
Government Commitment
The Ghanaian government’s decision to install its first 1000 MW Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) by 2030, is a significant step towards achieving its goal of increasing access to clean, reliable energy and supporting climate objectives. According to IAEA’s three phased milestone approach that begins with a pre-feasibility study and lasting to the commissioning and operation of the Nuclear power plant, the country is currently in its second phase and sees the establishment of key organizations necessary for the smooth coordinated operation of the nuclear power program. This forms part of the preparatory work for the project after a policy decision has been taken.
In June 2021, with the support of the Ministry of Energy, Ghana issued a Request for Information (RFI) to solicit both technical and financial information from vendors and strategic partners who would provide modular reactors for building the nuclear plant. The RFI was issued to six vendor countries to seek technical, financial, and contractual information regarding the technology they intended to deploy for the building of the nuclear power plant.
A total of 15 responses were received from vendor countries, including China, Russia, United States of America, South Korea, Canada, and France. Six of the responses proposed large nuclear reactor technology, while nine made offers for small nuclear reactors. The size of the reactors proposed by the vendor countries ranged from 700 Megawatt (MWe) to 1400 MWe for Large Nuclear Reactors (LNR) and 50 MWe to 300 MWe for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). It is expected that Ghana will be taking a decision on the RFI by the end of this year.
Adherence to IAEA Standards
Ghana's commitment to adhering to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards and the progress made in implementing the recommendations of an IAEA Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission demonstrate the country's dedication to ensuring safety and efficiency in its nuclear endeavors. In their 2019 follow-up assessment, the INIR team identified several commendable practices in Ghana's nuclear infrastructure development. Notably, Ghana has established a National Nuclear Power Program Implementing Organization (NNPIO) tasked with coordinating the comprehensive development of the nuclear power program. This centralized entity serves as a pivotal coordinating body, ensuring efficient progress in the program's various aspects. Moreover, the country has also formed a National Nuclear Power Program Steering Committee (NNPPSC) that plays a crucial role in offering guidance and oversight to the NNPIO, further enhancing the program's effectiveness and direction. To provide a structured approach, Ghana has devised a National Nuclear Power Program Action Plan (NNPPAP) which acts as a strategic roadmap for the systematic implementation of the nuclear power program. Additionally, the establishment of a Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) reflects Ghana's commitment to ensuring the safe and responsible regulation of its nuclear power program, underscoring the nation's dedication to best practices in nuclear infrastructure development.
The INIR team's assessment also pinpointed certain areas in Ghana's nuclear infrastructure development that require additional attention. These include securing government funding for the nuclear power program, ensuring a comprehensive plan for stakeholder involvement, deciding on appropriate fuel cycle options for the first nuclear power plant, and setting clear goals for local participation. These identified areas represent critical aspects that demand further deliberation and strategic development. It is anticipated that the insights garnered from the INIR mission will serve as a valuable foundation for Ghana to formulate a well-structured action plan aimed at addressing these gaps and further advancing the nation's national nuclear infrastructure, ultimately promoting a safer and more effective nuclear power program.
Officials from Nuclear Power Ghana & Ministry of Energy, Ghana at Africa NBP 2023
Experiences from International Collaborations
The United States has recently pledged its support to establish Ghana as a Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMR) Regional Training Hub for Sub-Saharan Africa. This partnership will enable Ghana to develop a skilled nuclear workforce for the country and the region, adhering to the highest international standards of nuclear safety, security, and nonproliferation. The ultimate goal of this partnership is to assist Ghana and other countries in the region to transition to clean, affordable, safe, and secure energy sources. Ghana has been involved in the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) program since 2022, and this initiative is part of the program. To support Ghana's nuclear workforce development, the United States will provide $1.75 million in funding, which will include an SMR control room simulator, university partnerships, and academic exchanges. Through this program, Ghana will be able to serve as a regional training hub for nuclear power technicians and operators. In addition to U.S. support, Ghana is also benefiting from an international civil nuclear cooperation agreement named WECAN (Winning an Edge through Cooperation in Advanced Nuclear), a partnership between the U.S. and Japan. The partnership is designed to support the deployment of small modular reactors (SMR) and other advanced reactor technologies in partner countries. Ghana is one such country that has partnered with the United States and Japan to develop an SMR nuclear power plant. The partnership will provide technical and regulatory assistance, feasibility studies, and other support to countries pursuing innovative nuclear technologies that increase access to clean, reliable energy and support climate objectives. In short, the WECAN partnership, in conjunction with Ghana's dedication to nuclear technology, offers the nation an excellent opportunity to build a strong foundation for a thriving nuclear workforce. This not only benefits Ghana but also has the potential to position the country as a regional leader in the field of advanced nuclear technologies and workforce development.
In a series of strategic agreements, Ghana embarked on a path towards the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy. In 2012, the nation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia, setting the stage for cooperation in the field of nuclear energy. Subsequently, in 2015, Ghana and Russia formalized their collaboration through an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), enabling Rosatom, the Russian state atomic energy corporation, to assist Ghana in the development of a nuclear power plant. In 2016, Ghana expanded its nuclear ambitions by signing an MoU with China, focusing on the enhancement of infrastructure and human resource development within the nuclear sector. In 2018, the nation continued to strengthen its commitment to nuclear energy by signing yet another MoU, this time with South Korea, aimed at advancing human resource development in the nuclear field. These partnerships reflect Ghana's dedication to harnessing nuclear technology for peaceful purposes and fostering international collaboration in this critical domain.
Ghana's Experience in Running Nuclear Facility
Ghana's 24-year operation of the Ghana Research Reactor, as recognized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), demonstrates the country's extensive experience in harnessing nuclear technology for research, medical, and industrial applications. This invaluable expertise in non-power nuclear applications positions Ghana to excel in operating its first Nuclear Power Plant (NPP).
Furthermore, Ghana's proficiency in running the research reactor can be a source of guidance and knowledge sharing for other nations embarking on their own nuclear journeys. By leveraging this experience, Ghana not only advances its clean energy goals but also contributes to the broader international community by sharing its research insights and best practices, promoting global nuclear safety, and facilitating cooperation in the nuclear field.
Established Nuclear Infrastructure
Ghana's strategic establishment of three key organizations - Nuclear Power Ghana, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission's Nuclear Power Institute, and the Nuclear Regulatory Authority - signifies its strong commitment to managing its nuclear ambitions comprehensively. These institutions are responsible for overseeing Ghana's first nuclear power project, conducting critical research, and ensuring rigorous regulatory compliance, contributing to the nation's nuclear capabilities.
Their substantial progress in implementing the recommendations of an IAEA Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review mission underscores Ghana's dedication to adhering to international standards and best practices in the nuclear field. Additionally, the Ghana Nuclear Power Program Organization (GNPPO), functioning as a technical workforce and advisory body, plays a pivotal role in coordinating and harmonizing Ghana's nuclear power program. This well-established nuclear regulatory framework can act as a model for the emerging nuclear energy nations in Africa.
Ghana's exemplary commitment to nuclear energy, with support from the United States and international partnerships, is setting the stage for a sustainable energy future in the region. With well-established institutions and adherence to global nuclear standards, Ghana's transformation into a regional nuclear workforce hub is not only commendable but also promising for the broader nuclear community.
Ghana’s Ministry of Energy will be hosting the 3rd edition of Africa Nuclear Business Platform in April 2024 in Accra. For more information, contact the organisers.
