Ghana has laid out an ambitious agenda to transition to renewable energy, driven by the urgent need to address environmental concerns, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and accelerate sustainable development.
This transition is not only crucial for sustainability but also for fostering economic growth, energy security, and job creation.
The government’s approach, spearheaded by Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition, is aimed at creating a green energy future that aligns with both domestic needs and global climate commitments.
Hon. Jinapor, speaking as the guest speaker at the Sustainable Energy Policy Dialogue 2025, organized by the Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation (CEPUR) outlined the government’s key focus areas in the transition to renewable energy.
“Our five-point agenda aims to tackle the challenges we face in the energy sector while enhancing our green credentials.
“We are not only focusing on the growth of renewable energy but also on driving local innovation, creating job opportunities, and reducing energy costs for our citizens.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition
The first pillar of this agenda is the establishment of a Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund in line with the Renewable Energy Act.
According to the minister, the fund will play a crucial role in “enhancing the green credentials of the country, encouraging investments in renewable energy, and supporting the development of local green technologies.”
A key aspect of Ghana’s renewable energy strategy is the use of solar-powered streetlights to enhance security in communities while alleviating financial pressure on citizens.
“We are committed to reducing the burden on Ghanaians, ensuring that they no longer have to pay extra for street lighting.
“The Energy Sector Recovery Program will now cover infrastructure, maintenance, and power supply for these streetlights.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition
This measure is expected to free up grid-connected power for productive and industrial use, thereby stimulating job creation and economic growth.
Expanding Electricity Access
Furthermore, the government plans to extend universal electricity access to 90% of the population by the end of 2025, a milestone that will be achieved through the deployment of renewable energy mini-grids.
This is in line with Hon. Jinapor’s goal of fast-tracking electricity access for all, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
“With the support of our partners such as SECO, KfW, AfDB, GIZ, and the World Bank, we are committed to achieving universal access to electricity this year.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition
This initiative is expected to improve livelihoods and create economic opportunities across the country, ensuring that more Ghanaians can tap into renewable energy sources to power their homes and businesses.
A pivotal aspect of the green transition is the establishment of the Renewable Energy Authority, a government body that will oversee the management of the Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund.
“Once established, the Renewable Energy Authority will be responsible for promoting investments in the energy transition, fostering meaningful collaborations, and supporting local research and development of renewable energy technologies.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition
Additionally, Hon. Jinapor touched on the competitive procurement process for renewable energy capacity, which will be implemented with the help of international partners.
The Ministry, with support from the World Bank, is developing a standardized Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) and is building the necessary capacity to conduct renewable energy auctions.
The overarching goal of these initiatives, according to the Minister, is to strike a balance between environmental sustainability and economic growth.
“As a country, we aim to develop all our energy resources sustainably.
“The transition to renewable energy is not only an environmental necessity but also an economic opportunity, one that will create jobs and guarantee a reliable and affordable power supply.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition
The minister called on public and private sector stakeholders to support the government’s energy transition efforts.
“The success of this transition relies on collective action.
“We must work together to make Ghana a leader in Africa’s renewable energy revolution.”
Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition
As Ghana accelerates its transition towards clean energy, the five-point agenda outlined by Hon. Jinapor presents a comprehensive framework for achieving sustainability while ensuring economic resilience.
With bold policies and strategic partnerships, the country is poised to position itself as a renewable energy leader in Africa.
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