Ghana’s first Electric Vehicle (EV) Solar Charging Station to boost clean transport transition was launched in Accra yesterday by the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition.
The EV solar charging station is an initiative of the Energy Commission (EC) in partnership with the German Embassy.
Situated at the Head Office of the EC, the initiative aims to showcase the role of EV charging stations in advancing sustainable transportation, reducing carbon emissions and supporting a cleaner energy-efficient future.
It also aims at reducing the dependency of Grid by demonstrating the efficient use of clean energy through a 60 kilowatt EV charger powered by 61.43Wp solar panels with a 60KWh ion battery bank to provide backup.
With a Carport made up of 105 Solar PV panels, each rated at 585Wp and together generate 61.43kWp, the EV charging station is capable of lifecycle up 80 to 90 per cent less environmental impact than the grid EV charging stations.
Launching the EV solar charging station, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr John Jinapor, pledged the government’s commitment to rolling out EV charging infrastructure across major urban corridors.
He noted that the ministry was leading several forward-looking initiatives to support the future demand for electric vehicles, which would be backbone by the EV charging systems.
Describing it as “essential for the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem in Ghana, he underscored that the EV uptake and optimise the energy system, aligning with the country’s goals for energy security, climate resilience, and inclusive growth.”
Mr Jinapor said the launch was a bold statement of the country’s intent to decarbonise transport and promote clean energy alternatives.
“This marks a significant step in our national strategy to modernise public transportation while reducing urban pollution and dependency on imported fossil fuels,” Mr Jinapor stated.
He emphasised that the infrastructure uses solar power to charge electric vehicles, reducing both emissions and long-term energy costs.
He emphasised the economic benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles, highlighting lower operating costs, long-term savings for transport operators, and reduced fuel price volatility.
As part of ongoing efforts, the Ministry is spearheading initiatives to develop a regulatory framework, encourage private sector participation, and integrate renewables into transport planning.
The Acting Executive Secretary, EC, Mrs Eunice Biritwum, said the facility is more than just infrastructure, as it marked a symbol of Ghana’s commitment to clean energy and climate-resilient development.
Furthermore, she added that, the station was powered by solar energy, showcasing the country’s potential to leverage its abundant renewable resources to promote energy independence and reduce carbon emissions.
“The project also aligns with the nation’s ambition of achieving net-zero emissions while enhancing energy efficiency and mobility.”
“The launch event underscored three key objectives: driving the green mobility agenda, showcasing innovation through partnership, and inspiring broader cross-sector action,” she emphasised.
Mrs Biritwum commended the German Embassy and the German International Agency (GIZ) for supporting the initiative and other projects of the EC.
BY CECILIA YADA LAGBA
