Accra: Ghana will pursue its energy transition on its own terms and pace, prioritising energy efficiency, renewables, and nuclear power while using natural gas as a strategic transitional fuel. Mr. Hubert Zan, the Manager in charge of Energy Efficiency Regulations at the Energy Commission, stated that the country's transition strategy is anchored on reducing dependence on fossil fuels while ensuring energy security and affordability.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Zan emphasized that energy efficiency remains the core of Ghana's transition strategy. He explained that reducing energy consumption can lessen the need to generate additional electricity. He noted that energy efficiency is the "first pool" in the transition strategy, which seeks to maintain existing power levels without the need for additional production.
Mr. Zan outlined Ghana's energy transition pathway, which includes moving away from thermal generation, introducing nuclear power as a baseload, increasing utility-scale solar, and promoting energy-efficient appliances and technologies. He highlighted the need for international financing to enhance renewable energy penetration and help reduce electricity bills for households and businesses.
Discussing the role of natural gas, Mr. Zan stated that Ghana's domestic gas resources provide a buffer against external shocks linked to fossil fuel dependence. He referenced recent geopolitical developments, such as conflicts in the Middle East, which underscore the risks for countries reliant on imported fossil fuels. As Ghana's Lead Negotiator for Mitigation and Energy Transition under the UNFCCC, he described the government's promotion of natural gas as a tactical measure to bolster energy security while scaling up cleaner power sources.
Mr. Zan mentioned Ghana's ambitious target of increasing modern renewable energy to about 10 percent by 2030. He also noted the government's consideration of establishing a renewable energy authority to accelerate the development and promotion of renewable energy and energy efficiency.
The transition extends beyond electricity generation to transportation, with Ghana promoting electric vehicles to cut emissions in the transport sector. Mr. Zan stated that the Energy Commission is tasked with developing regulations for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, with draft regulations currently before Parliament for consideration.