How many solar PV systems are installed in Ghana?

In Ghana, donor cooperation in solar PV projects started in the 1990s and has been increasing thereafter. Since 2009, a total of 9536 solar systems have been installed in remote off-grid communities in over 70 districts nationwide with support from JICA, the World Bank and the Spanish Government.

What is solar photovoltaic generation in Ghana?

Solar photovoltaic generation is a proven renewable energy technology and has the potential to become cost-effective in the future, for it produces electricity from the solar radiation. In Ghana, the electricity demand is rapidly increasing at a rate of 10% annually.

Does Ghana have a solar energy plan?

And this objective is addressed by the Strategic National Energy Plan (SNEP). Although there was little credit available for purchasing solar PV systems privately, the Government of Ghana took steps including fee-for-service approach to encourage the use of PV systems in off-grid rural areas .

When did solar power start in Ghana?

The development of national policies relating to solar electricity in Ghana can be traced to 1983 when the National Energy Board (NEB) was established, though public solar PV electrification projects were first implemented in the early 1990s.

Should solar energy be a priority in Ghana?

Ghana׳s location in this region makes it natural that the application of solar energy should be given priority. The dependency on hydro energy and fossil based fuels for electricity generation has been far too long and the time has come to make use of the solar resource potential of the country .

What are the barriers to entry in the Ghana solar PV market?

However, the main barrier to entry in the Ghana solar PV market is the freeze on the issuance of electricity production licences and, when the ban is over, the implications of the new local content and participation laws. Article compiled by: Araba Attua-Afari, Senior Assosicate at Ghanaian member firm Bentsi-Enchill, Letsa & Ankomah