Ghana Renewable Energy: 500 MW by 2025
Ghana is set to significantly expand its renewable energy capacity, with a plan to add 500 MW to the national grid by 2025. This major initiative was announced by Minister for Energy Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh during the 2024 budget presentation in Parliament.
The goal is to raise the share of renewables in the country’s energy mix from 5.2% to 14%, an ambitious target detailed in resources like the Ghana Renewable Energy: 500 MW Power Boost by 2025 report. This expansion will be driven by a diverse portfolio of solar, wind, and biomass projects designed to strengthen the nation’s power sources and reduce its reliance on non-renewable energy.
Ghana Renewable Energy: A National Commitment
The government’s commitment is evident in several key initiatives. Ongoing projects include the 50 MW Bui Solar Project and a 250 MWp Solar PV Project in the Northern Region, which are both crucial for generating clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.
According to the Ghana Solar Panel Manufacturing Report, the country’s solar ambitions extend further, with the Bui Power Authority planning to construct eight new solar plants in the northern regions. To accelerate this growth, the government has also partnered with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) on a 100 MWp solar and wind project. These efforts align with Ghana’s renewable energy master plan, which sets a long-term target of 1,514 MW of solar capacity by 2030.
Economic and Environmental Benefits of Ghana Renewable Energy
This investment in renewable energy extends beyond power generation, promising significant economic and environmental benefits. As outlined in the 2024 budget, the expansion aims to stimulate economic development, enhance energy security, and create new jobs. By shifting toward renewables, Ghana can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Integrating solar, wind, and biomass will build a more sustainable and resilient power system. Economically, this transition helps reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, saving foreign exchange and shrinking the trade deficit. Furthermore, the development of these projects will create jobs in construction, manufacturing, and maintenance, boosting local economies and improving livelihoods across the nation.
International Partners in Ghana Renewable Energy Development
International collaboration is crucial to achieving Ghana’s renewable energy goals. Partners like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) are providing vital support. The AfDB’s involvement, for example, was instrumental in developing the 100 MWp solar and wind project, which significantly boosts the country’s renewable capacity.
This global cooperation underscores the importance of Ghana’s energy transition and reinforces its commitment to sustainable development. With this backing, the government’s focus on renewables is becoming a more integral part of its economic growth strategy. By investing with these partners, Ghana is building a diversified and resilient energy sector, reducing its carbon footprint, and securing a sustainable power future.
