West African country, Ghana, is seeking investors to develop wind and tidal wave energy projects to expand its renewable energy portfolio and strengthen the national grid.
The director of AT Consult, Wisdom Ahiataku-Togobo, disclosed this at the 15th session of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in Abu Dhabi. He noted that the initiative aligns with the country’s strategy to diversify its energy mix and reduce emissions.
Ahiataku-Togobo explained that wind energy studies conducted across 13 coastal locations, from Tema to Aflao, indicate favorable conditions for utility-scale wind power.
“We conducted all necessary measurements and identified areas with moderate to good wind speeds, making them ideal for development,” he said.
He highlighted the region’s flat terrain and lack of obstructions, which facilitate wind turbine installations.
In addition to wind energy, Ghana is exploring the potential of tidal wave energy along its coastline.
Ahiataku-Togobo revealed that areas from Ada through Anloga and Keta experience strong wave currents, presenting opportunities for energy generation.
“We installed a test wave plant, but the strong waves damaged it,” he said. “Our engineers are now working on a more robust system, and we expect to have a 5-megawatt wave energy plant operational by the end of 2025.”
Ghana’s renewable energy mix currently relies heavily on hydropower, with the Akosombo and Bui dams supplying 30% of the nation’s electricity. Officials aim to increase the renewable energy contribution by 10% over the next five years.
However, rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions remain a challenge. The Environmental Protection Agency’s Sixth National Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report indicates that emissions tripled between 1990 and 2022, with the energy sector accounting for a significant share.
“Emissions from the energy sector have increased nine-fold due to the reliance on fuel combustion and the transition to natural gas for electricity generation,” Ahiataku-Togobo noted.
Experts argue that Ghana’s clean energy transition is crucial to achieving climate goals and improving public health.
Meanwhile, Ahiataku-Togobo stressed that scaling up renewable energy would provide affordable power, facilitating the transition to electric vehicles and cleaner cooking alternatives.
Ghana’s government is implementing policies to attract private sector investment in wind and wave energy.
Ahiataku-Togobo expressed confidence in the country’s potential to lead in renewable energy within the subregion, citing its hydropower achievements as a foundation for further growth.
With these projects, Ghana aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, diversify its energy sources, and meet both national and international energy transition targets. Officials believe these efforts will not only lower emissions but also enhance energy access for underserved communities.
