In a significant step towards achieving universal electricity access and promoting sustainable development, the Government of Ghana has officially launched the Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Programme (SREP) in Lala, Sene East District of the Bono East Region. The programme, which aims to provide clean and sustainable electricity to over 70,000 people in some of the country’s most underserved communities, marks a major milestone in Ghana’s journey towards a greener and more energy-secure future.
The launch event, which was attended by key stakeholders including representatives from the Swiss Embassy, the African Development Bank, officials from the Volta River Authority, Electricity Company of Ghana, and Energy Commission, was a testament to the government’s commitment to expanding energy access and promoting renewable energy development in the country.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, emphasized the importance of the initiative in transforming rural lives and bridging the energy divide. “As a Ministry, we are not just installing solar panels or building infrastructure, we are lighting up lives, empowering communities, and bridging the rural-urban energy divide,” he said.
The SREP initiative will see the construction of 35 mini grids and the installation of 1,450 solar home systems across the Bono East, Oti, and Savannah regions. Additionally, 12,000 net-metered rooftop solar PV systems will be installed nationwide to support Ghana’s transition towards a greener energy mix. The programme is expected to not only improve energy access but also promote economic development and reduce poverty in the beneficiary communities.
Hon. Jinapor acknowledged the resilience of the people in remote communities without electricity who have long awaited connection to the national grid. He called on leaders and residents of the communities to actively participate in the construction and management of the new infrastructure, urging them to take ownership of the project to ensure its long-term success. He also urged the contractor to engage the services of local artisans during the construction of the project, highlighting the importance of local participation and capacity building.
The Minister also highlighted the broader vision of achieving universal electricity access by 2030, revealing that feasibility studies have already been completed for 150 island and lakeside communities in the Afram Plains, with plans underway to begin construction of 150 new mini grids as part of future development. “We are confident that by 2030, we will have over 200 mini grids operational, delivering on our last-mile electrification target of 99.8%,” he declared.
The launch of the SREP programme is a significant step towards achieving Ghana’s energy sector goals and targets. The programme is being implemented in partnership with the Climate Investment Fund, Swiss Government, and the African Development Bank, and is expected to make a major impact on the lives of Ghanaians in the beneficiary communities.
The Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, Ing. Eunice Biritwum (Mrs.), pledged the full support and commitment of the Commission to the successful implementation of the SREP programme. She highlighted the crucial role the Commission has played in the development of SREP since its inception in 2013/2014, and reiterated the Commission’s dedication to supporting the programme.
The Chief Executive Officer of Volta River Authority (VRA), Ing. Edward Kenzo, reaffirmed VRA’s unwavering commitment to the long-term sustainability, efficient operation, and responsible management of the mini grids upon completion. “We understand infrastructure represents the first crucial step; however, it is the continuous delivery of quality service that ultimately brings lasting change. We assure Ghanaians of proper maintenance culture to the highest standards to be able to serve the communities for many years,” he said.
The Deputy Head of Corporation at the Swiss Embassy, Magdalena Wust, reiterated the commitment of Switzerland to partner Ghana in achieving access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. She highlighted the significance of bilateral relations between Switzerland and Ghana under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which sets the foundation for collaborative climate action, and expressed confidence that efforts will be strengthened to ensure sustainable energy for all.
The launch of the SREP programme is a major milestone in Ghana’s journey towards a sustainable energy future. The programme is expected to make a significant impact on the lives of Ghanaians in the beneficiary communities, and will contribute to the country’s efforts to achieve universal electricity access and promote sustainable development.
In conclusion, the Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Programme is a landmark initiative that will transform the lives of thousands of Ghanaians in underserved communities. The programme’s success will depend on the effective implementation and management of the mini grids and solar home systems, as well as the active participation of local communities. With the support of international partners and the commitment of the government, Ghana is poised to achieve its energy sector goals and targets, and make a significant contribution to the global effort to promote sustainable development and reduce poverty.
