Ghana is preparing to significantly expand its renewable energy efforts by 2027. The government plans to move beyond small test projects. It aims for a commercially driven growth phase for solar and wind power. This strategy seeks to lower Ghana's reliance on expensive thermal power. It also intends to strengthen long-term energy security. The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition is leading this initiative.
The expansion will concentrate on large solar power farms. It will also include battery storage systems. Mini-grids and rooftop solar installations are part of the plan. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure is also a focus. This push faces difficulties in Ghana's power sector. The sector continues to grapple with significant debt. Transmission lines have limitations. Grid stability also remains a concern. These issues raise questions about execution. Can these green energy goals become reality on a large scale?
Ghana's energy sector has faced considerable financial burdens. As of January 2026, the government paid US$1.47 billion. This amount cleared old debts owed to power producers and gas suppliers. This payment helped restore crucial World Bank guarantees. This financial cleanup is a backdrop to the new renewable energy push.
Seth Manu, Director of Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy, explained the ministry's vision. He stated that the Ministry's expanded role is to provide policy focus. It aims to give more momentum to the country's energy transition. "We are investing heavily in renewable energy," Mr. Manu said. "Currently, several solar projects are under construction. We expect them to come online between 2027 and 2028. They will contribute significantly to Ghana’s energy mix."
Mr. Manu also confirmed efforts in wind energy development. Feasibility studies are currently underway in various locations. "At the same time, we are investing in transmission infrastructure," he added. "This ensures the seamless integration of these renewable energy assets into the national grid." The strategy extends beyond electricity generation. It also aims to reduce carbon emissions in sectors like agriculture and water supply.
In agriculture, the ministry is working with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. They plan to use renewable energy for irrigation systems nationwide. This aims to improve food security. It could also help control inflation. "Food inflation remains one of the biggest contributors to the country’s overall inflation basket," Mr. Manu noted. This initiative seeks to make energy a driver for economic productivity. It also aims to support food production and affordability.
Renewable energy systems are also being deployed for water treatment. This is particularly for underserved communities. "We are also working to decarbonise the water sector," Mr. Manu stated. Treating water uses significant energy. Renewable solutions will support community and small-town water systems. Projects are already in progress in the Savannah and Central Regions. Plans exist to expand this nationwide.
The government encourages homes and businesses to use distributed renewable systems. This reduces strain on the national grid. The Solar Net Metering Programme is a key initiative. It is part of the Scaling Up Renewable Energy Programme (SREP). "This initiative allows households and businesses to invest in solar energy systems connected to the national grid," Mr. Manu explained. "Excess power generated can be exported to the grid and credited back to the owner under a contractual arrangement." This programme could attract investment. It could also improve the national electricity network's resilience.
Mr. Manu emphasized the government's commitment. "These are just some of the interventions we are implementing to support Ghana’s energy transition agenda," he said. "I can assure you that we are on course." With support from the Finance Ministry, strategic projects are active. "Within the next 12 to 24 months, Ghanaians will begin to see tangible results," he promised. Industries are also being pushed to invest in their own renewable energy systems. This helps them reduce reliance on traditional power sources.