Ghana has signed an agreement with the Canadian clean energy company Portage Energy Group Inc. to develop a major waste-to-energy and sustainable aviation fuel project. The initiative aims to convert municipal waste into power and reduce landfill pressure. Each facility is projected to generate up to 25 megawatts of electricity.
This partnership designates Portage Energy as the preferred development partner for the project. The project will transform municipal solid waste into bio-organic pellets, clean electricity, and sustainable aviation fuel. Initial work will involve technical and environmental studies in the Tema Metropolitan Area, specifically near the Kpone landfill site.
This initiative fits into Ghana’s broader economic strategy to attract private investment for climate-aligned infrastructure. It supports the nation's green transition agenda and its circular economy objectives. The agreement also positions Ghana as a potential future hub for sustainable aviation fuel production in Africa.
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, called the partnership a significant step. He stated, “This partnership aligns seamlessly with Ghana’s strategic commitment to sustainable waste management and our green transition.” He added that the project addresses sanitation challenges, strengthens energy security, and drives economic growth without using public funds. Portage Energy Group Inc. CEO, Craig Latimer, expressed honor at being selected for the project. “Our proven waste-to-value solutions will reduce landfill dependence,” he said. He added that it will generate up to 25 megawatts of clean power and prepare for future Sustainable Aviation Fuel production in West Africa.
No financial burden will fall on the Ghanaian state as Portage Energy will fully finance the project. This private sector funding model is crucial given Ghana's current focus on fiscal consolidation. Approximately 5 megawatts of electricity generated will power operations. The remaining electricity will then enter the national grid, enhancing Ghana’s energy supply.
The project’s success will depend on factors such as technical feasibility, environmental approvals, and consistent waste supply. Operational and power purchase agreements will also need successful negotiation. The current agreement signifies a potential pathway for Ghana to transform a significant urban management challenge into a clean energy and industrial opportunity. Ghana faces pressing policy priorities in waste management, energy security, and climate transition. Converting waste into energy could ease pressure on overflowing landfills. It would also create a new source of renewable power, reducing methane emissions and creating new jobs.
The sustainable aviation fuel component carries strategic importance. The global aviation industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonize. Countries capable of producing sustainable aviation fuel could access a growing clean-fuel market. This could make Ghana a leader in this emerging sector in Africa. For instance, a 25-megawatt waste-to-energy plant can cost approximately GHS 375 million (USD 30 million) to GHS 625 million (USD 50 million) to develop, based on similar global projects.
The Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, highlighted the agreement as a milestone. She stated, “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding marks another proud milestone in the strong bilateral relationship between Canada and Ghana.” She concluded by emphasizing Canada's support for Ghana’s climate goals.