Accra: The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has announced plans for the government to procure 200 megawatts (MW) of battery energy storage. This initiative aims to bolster electricity supply during peak demand periods at night, as part of efforts to expand Ghana's green energy capacity.
According to Ghana Web, Dr. Jinapor explained in Parliament that the battery storage systems will be deployed nationwide through a competitive procurement process. This will enable the stored electricity to be injected into the national grid during high-demand periods, particularly at night. The minister emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to accelerate Ghana's transition to renewable and cleaner energy sources.
Several programs have already been launched to support the green energy agenda outlined by President John Dramani Mahama. These include the National Energy Transition Framework, a revised Renewable Energy Master Plan, and the establishment of a Renewable Energy and Green Transition Directorate, which is set for an upgrade into a Renewable Energy Authority.
Dr. Jinapor also mentioned the creation of a Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund to mobilize domestic resources and provide financial support for renewable energy projects. In 2025, Ghana added about 80MW of renewable energy capacity, mainly from solar power, bringing the country's total installed solar capacity to approximately 280MW. Ongoing major projects include the 200MW solar project at Dawa, 100MW at Bui, and others.
Beyond electricity generation, the ministry is deploying solar technology in the water and agriculture sectors to improve access to water for domestic use and irrigation. Two pilot projects are underway in the Savannah and Central regions, with plans for nationwide expansion depending on the results.
In 2025, five pilot mini-grids were rehabilitated, and three new mini-grids were commissioned to improve electricity access in island communities. To further expand electricity access, the ministry is rolling out solar-powered home systems for off-grid communities and has partnered with Better Planet India to locally manufacture and distribute one million improved cookstoves.
The minister also revealed plans to construct solar parks to serve as charging stations for electric vehicles, with guidelines to regulate the establishment of charging points across the country. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to increase renewable energy consumption and promote sustainable energy development in Ghana.
Consultations are ongoing for the establishment of the Renewable Energy Authority, with a proposal expected to be submitted to Cabinet before Parliament for approval. Dr. Jinapor emphasized the importance of conducting broad stakeholder consultations and thorough preparation before presenting the bill for approval.