Accra (Greater Accra) 1st July '99

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) on Wednesday commissioned a Cable Test Van equipped with modern instruments and testing gadgets to enable it reduce time wasted to locate faults in cable networks.

The Van will also be used to measure the insulation level in transformers, switch gears, overhead networks as well as cables and test their suitability for connection unto the distribution network for operation.

It will promote quick relocation of the cables for construction industry.

Mr William K. Kyeremanteng, Director of Operations, said the acquisition of the van is part of efforts to ensure customer satisfaction in the provision of electricity.

He said faults occur in the electricity distribution network when the insulation in the equipment, lines and cables breakdown as a result of ageing, fire or physical damage, caused by third parties.

Mr Kyeremanteng said faults in sub-station equipment and overhead lines are relatively easier to locate as these items are visible.

However, in the case of cables, it is more difficult to locate fault points since they are usually buried in the ground.

Mr Kyeremanteng said it is time wasting and expensive to dig the entire cable length to locate and repair faults, hence, the need to use special equipment.

Mr Phil Kennedy, International Sales and Application Manager of AVO International, suppliers of the van, handed over the keys of the vehicle to Mr Kyeremanteng.