Bui Dam
Bono
The Bui Dam is a significant hydroelectric power facility located on the Black Volta river at the Bui Gorge, within the southern end of Bui National Park in Ghana. With a generation capacity of 400 megawatts, it is the second largest hydroelectric plant in Ghana after the Akosombo Dam. The dam was constructed by the Ghanaian government in partnership with the Chinese state-owned Sinohydro company, with construction commencing in December 2009 and the first generator commissioned in May 2013. The dam's reservoir flooded approximately 20% of Bui National Park, impacting local wildlife habitats, including those of the rare black hippopotamus, and necessitating the resettlement of over 1,200 people. The project reflects decades of planning dating back to the 1920s, with various interruptions due to political and economic factors. Today, the Bui Dam contributes significantly to Ghana's electricity supply, helping to alleviate energy shortages. Despite environmental concerns, it remains a landmark of Ghana's infrastructure development and a point of interest for visitors to the region.
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Astuce: Visitors interested in the Bui Dam should consider touring during the dry season for easier access and better viewing conditions. It is advisable to check with the Bui Power Authority for guided tour availability and any necessary permissions. Advance arrangements may be required due to the dam's operational nature and environmental sensitivities. While visiting, respect local resettlement areas and protected zones within Bui National Park. No specific ticketing is required for viewing the dam from public areas, but official tours may have protocols to follow.
Faits intéressants
- •Bui Dam is Ghana's second largest hydroelectric power plant after the Akosombo Dam.
- •The reservoir flooded about 20% of Bui National Park, affecting habitats of the rare black hippopotamus.
- •The dam required the resettlement of 1,216 people from the affected areas.
- •The project was initially conceived in 1925 by Albert Ernest Kitson, a British-Australian geologist.
- •Construction began in 2009 and the dam was inaugurated in December 2013.
Histoire
The concept of the Bui Dam was first proposed in 1925 by geologist Albert Ernest Kitson.
Planning gained momentum in the 1960s following the construction of the Akosombo Dam.
Progress was hindered by political instability and multiple military coups during the late 20th century.
Renewed interest and feasibility studies in the 1990s and early 2000s led to the project's revival, with Chinese company Sinohydro eventually undertaking construction starting in 2009.
The dam was officially inaugurated in December 2013, marking a major milestone in Ghana's energy infrastructure development.