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The country’s shift towards affordable and eco-friendly energy has gained significant momentum with the introduction of a US$200 million National Clean Energy Programme (NCEP) aimed at speeding up the deployment of rooftop solar systems nationwide.

The program, created in collaboration with the Swiss Government and carried out under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, will assist families, small enterprises, and companies in transitioning to renewable energy, decrease reliance on the national power grid, and cut down on electricity expenses.

As part of the initiative, 4,000 rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, adding up to 137 megawatts (MW) of clean energy generation, will be implemented across the country. This project will also provide confirmed reductions in emissions, boost living standards, strengthen energy security, and encourage local advancements in renewable energy technologies.

During the event in Accra, John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, stated that the program aims to increase access to solar power and reduce its cost, particularly for small enterprises and middle-class families facing expensive electricity charges.

“This initiative serves as a real-world example of our dedication to a fair energy shift. It will enable individuals to produce their own electricity, lower expenses, and help create a more sustainable atmosphere,” he stated.

He mentioned that the Ministry is revising the Renewable Energy Master Plan to direct investments from 2026 to 2030, and has created a Renewable Energy Investment and Green Transition Fund to draw private funding into the solar and off-grid industries.

Felix Addo-Okyeireh, the Deputy Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), referred to the NCEP as a concrete result of Ghana’s dedication to utilizing global carbon markets for long-term environmental progress.

He mentioned that the initiative would guarantee verifiable and trustworthy cuts in emissions, while supporting Ghana in meeting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Simone Giger, the Swiss envoy to Ghana, Benin, and Togo, stated that the initiative demonstrated how global collaboration can transform aspirations into tangible efforts.

Ghana is ascending the correct tree, the tree of clean and sustainable energy,” she stated, “and Switzerland is pleased to offer its support through collaboration, investment, and mutual knowledge.

She pointed out that while Ghana has reached nearly 90 per cent electricity access, approximately 64 per cent of its power generation is still reliant on fossil fuels, emphasizing the need to shift towards renewable energy sources to protect the economy from fluctuations in fuel prices and supply issues.

The NCEP represents Ghana’s initial rooftop solar PV project under Article 6 and the second such initiative worldwide, highlighting the nation’s pioneering role in clean energy development and carbon market advancements across Africa.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).