Story by Karen Aryeetey
The Energy Commission, in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), has inaugurated a 60-kilowatt solar-powered electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Accra.
This marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s transition towards green transportation and efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Speaking at the event, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, revealed that a memorandum has been submitted to Cabinet for approval, which, among other recommendations, proposes that Members of Parliament should adopt electric vehicles.
The solar-powered EV charging station is a crucial step by the Energy Commission and GIZ, aimed at promoting sustainable urban transport and laying the foundation for a resilient, low-carbon future.
The 60kW electric vehicle charger is powered by a carport made up of 105 solar panels, which generate 61.43kWp, with a 60kWh Li-ion battery bank to provide backup and reduce dependence on the grid.
The project exemplifies how solar energy can be harnessed effectively for urban mobility solutions.
Mr. Jinapor stressed the government’s commitment to integrating renewable energy into transportation to support global energy goals while addressing pressing challenges in the sector.
“I have always known that we use electricity from the grid to charge vehicles. But now, we are taking it a step further—where you will use solar to charge your vehicle—and for me, that is very important. It means that we are completely pursuing renewable energy,” the Minister noted.
The Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, Eunice Biritwum, added that, “this solar-powered EV charging station stands as a testament to our efforts to champion sustainable mobility, enhance energy efficiency, and uphold environmental stewardship. By harnessing Ghana’s abundant solar resources to power electric transportation, we promote energy independence and directly support our national aspiration of achieving a net-zero future.”
The Ghana Country Director of GIZ, Dr. Dirk Aßmann, said the project serves as a strong example of how strategic partnerships can play a key role in advancing green energy.
“As we move forward, I urge everyone to see this project as a foundation, not a finish line. Let us continue to invest in innovation, build enabling environments, and work collaboratively towards a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Ghana,” Dr. Aßmann added.
The solar-powered EV charging station is expected to have 80 to 90 percent less environmental impact compared to EV charging stations powered solely by the national grid.
