BPA compensates persons affected by project in Yendi
The Bui Power Authority (BPA) has disbursed over GHS 1.5 million as compensation to persons affected by the construction of a 50MWp solar power plant at Galgu in the Yendi Municipality in the Northern Region.
The compensation covers losses to crops, economic trees, buildings and plots of land owned by individuals and families.
A total of 34 people were identified as affected, with 15 already receiving payments ranging from GH¢6,000 to GH¢481,852.79 in the first phase of the disbursement.
Commissioned in December 2024, the 50-Megawatt Peak (MWp) Solar Power Plant seeks to boost electricity supply in the municipality and the entire Eastern Corridor enclave.
The $59-million plant was constructed by the BPA to address the strain on existing power transmission infrastructure and reduce the likelihood of power outages and voltage fluctuations.
The solar plant spans 3.95 kilometers along the Yendi-Galgu trunk road.
To make way for the project, land within a 30-meter-wide corridor was acquired, affecting crops, bare land and buildings located along that stretch.
Fairness
Presenting the cheques to the affected persons on behalf of the acting Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Kow Eduakwa Sam, the Director of Natural Resources at BPA, Wumbei Salifu, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to fairness, transparency and community engagement.
He explained that affected persons with farmland, economic trees and some categories of land had been duly compensated to ensure no one was disadvantaged due to the project.
He added that the compensation was being executed in phases, with the second phase targeting individuals with buildings, developed plots and properties located within the project area.
“This marks another significant step in Bui Power Authority's journey to expand access to renewable energy while protecting the rights and livelihoods of affected communities" Mr Salifu said.
He indicated that the compensation amount varied based on the type of property affected, adding "those with buildings and developed plots received higher amounts, while those with undeveloped lands and annual crops received less".
Addressing concerns about the compensation packages, he assured the community that the valuation was conducted by certified valuers using government-approved rates.
He further pledged continued engagement with local chiefs and stakeholders to ensure all affected persons were fairly compensated.
Commendation
For his part, the Head of the Works Department at the Yendi Municipal Assembly, Engineer Edward Okantah, commended BPA for the prompt compensation of the affected persons.
He urged the community and stakeholders to protect the facility to ensure long-term benefits for all.
Some of the beneficiaries who received their compensation expressed gratitude to BPA and assured the authority of their support in safeguarding the project.
