Ghana Achieves Major Milestone with First-Ever IAEA SEED Review Mission for Nuclear Power Site Selection

• May 26, 2025
• Afia Adjei
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Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG) successfully hosted the country’s first-ever External Events Design (SEED) Review Mission by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Held in Accra from February 14 to 21, 2025, the mission marks a significant step in Ghana’s journey toward developing its first nuclear power plant.

The SEED Review Mission focused on reviewing the processes and methodologies used by NPG to select and evaluate potential sites for the proposed power plant. This independent international assessment reaffirms Ghana’s strong commitment to meeting global nuclear safety standards.

The mission team, composed of experts from the IAEA and technical professionals from four countries, engaged in a comprehensive review of documentation, carried out site visits, and held technical discussions with NPG and key national stakeholders.

The review team evaluated the preferred site in the Western Region and the alternative site in the Central Region. Their assessment considered a wide range of external factors, including geological stability, hydrological conditions, environmental considerations, and emergency planning requirements.

Other stakeholders were drawn from the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA), and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority. As part of the mission, a capacity-building workshop was also held to enhance local expertise in site evaluation and the application of IAEA safety standards.

The SEED Review Team concluded that NPG’s approach to site selection is structured, technically sound, and well-coordinated. The review included several recommendations to further strengthen hazard assessments, enhance documentation, and prepare for future phases such as site characterization and regulatory licensing.

This successful review underscores Ghana’s readiness to move forward with the safe and responsible application of nuclear energy. It reflects NPG’s dedication to transparency, technical excellence, and international collaboration as the nation progresses on its nuclear power roadmap.