In a world increasingly concerned with climate change and environmental sustainability, the exploration and utilisation of renewable energy sources have taken center stage. Among these renewable energy sources, solar energy has emerged as a beacon of hope, offering not only a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels but also a powerful catalyst for sustainable development.
Solar energy is a renewable source of energy that is sustainable in the sense that it doesn’t finish, become scarce, or dry up. It also has the potential to provide power over a long period of time. It is considerably very affordable and with little or no negative environmental impact.
This is the power derived from the sun but converted into thermal energy by photovoltaic (PV) panels or concentrated mirror radiation for commercial, industrial, or domestic use. Solar energy can be derived directly or indirectly, It is true to say that Solar energy tops the list of the most abundant pure source of energy available.
Ghana Solar Energy Potentials
Situated in the sun-drenched region of West Africa, the country is endowed with an abundant solar resource that remains largely untapped. The intensity and duration of sunlight in Ghana is well-suited for solar energy generation, making them prime candidates for large-scale solar projects.
Data collected from solar irradiance studies reveals an impressive average of 5-6 kWh/m²/day and approximately 2,000-3,000 hours of sunshine per year, providing a solid foundation upon which to build a robust solar energy infrastructure.
It is also estimated that Ghana has the potential to generate approximately 256,000 TWh of solar energy per year.
Sun-drenched portions across Ghana
Image Source: www.Sciencedirect.com
With the introduction of the Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Programme (SREP), the country has shown an impressive growth path in the solar energy Industry. Through the Financial provision of grants, guarantees, and loans, Ghanaians now gain significant access to electricity through solar systems to help move the electricity access rate from about 89% at the end of 2022 to at least 95% by 2025. – Integrated power sector master plan for Ghana March 2023.
The government of Ghana has shown a commitment to increasing the country’s renewable energy mix, with a target of achieving 10% of the country’s energy mix from renewable sources by 2030.
Rising Energy Demand and Dependence
Ghana has been experiencing steady population growth and it is estimated that Ghana’s population will increase to 52,016,125 people by 2050. Increased population will invariably contribute to an increase in energy demand. As urban areas expand and more people move to cities, the need for electricity for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes rises.
Ghana’s efforts to promote industrialization and economic growth have led to an increased demand for energy, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and services.
The highly polluted emissions from the use of fuels have necessitated the prioritization of the growth in renewable energy sources. Solar power systems have grown considerably in the past few decades as a reliable and sustainable source of energy.
The benefits of driving sustainable development through Solar
Solar energy offers a wide range of benefits to Ghana, contributing to its sustainable development, economic growth, and environmental protection. Here are some key benefits of solar energy in Ghana:
Abundant Renewable Resource: Ghana is located near the equator, providing it with an abundance of sunlight throughout the year. This solar irradiance makes solar energy a readily available and reliable renewable resource, helping to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependency on fossil fuels.
Energy Security: By harnessing solar energy, Ghana can enhance its energy security by reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. This reduces vulnerability to fluctuations in global fuel prices and supply disruptions.
Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Solar energy is a clean and environmentally friendly source of power. By replacing traditional fossil fuel-based electricity generation, solar energy helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating the impacts of climate change and improving air quality.
Job Creation and Economic Growth: The development of solar energy projects creates job opportunities across various sectors, from manufacturing and installation to maintenance and operation. This job creation contributes to local economic growth and supports livelihoods.
Energy Access and Rural Electrification: Solar energy can play a crucial role in providing electricity to remote and off-grid areas where traditional power infrastructure is difficult to establish. Solar panels, micro-grids, and solar home systems enable rural communities to access electricity for lighting, cooking, and powering small appliances.
Reduction of Electricity Costs: Solar power generation can help offset electricity costs for households, businesses, and industries. By generating their own solar energy, consumers can reduce their reliance on grid electricity and potentially save on energy bills.
Technology Transfer and Innovation: The adoption of solar energy technology fosters technology transfer, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. This can lead to the development of local expertise in solar technology, manufacturing, and system design.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Solar energy aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 13 (Climate Action), among others.
Reduced Energy Losses: Solar installations close to the point of consumption can help reduce transmission and distribution losses associated with long-distance electricity transportation, leading to greater overall energy efficiency.
Environmental Preservation: Solar energy contributes to reducing the environmental impact of energy production. It helps conserve natural resources and protects ecosystems by decreasing the need for resource-intensive fossil fuel extraction and minimizing habitat disruption.
Energy Independence: As solar energy generation is locally sourced, it enhances energy independence and reduces the nation’s reliance on imported energy sources, contributing to a more resilient energy system.
Reduced Air and Water Pollution:
Solar energy generation does not produce air pollutants or contribute to water contamination, in stark contrast to conventional fossil fuel power plants. This helps improve air quality and protect water resources.
Ghana’s commitment to harnessing solar energy has been underscored by a series of strategic initiatives and policies. With each solar panel that graces rooftops and each solar farm that springs to life, the nation takes a significant step toward reducing its carbon footprint and diminishing its dependence on finite fossil fuel resources. As solar energy integrates seamlessly into the energy mix, it contributes to the alleviation of strain on the existing grid, ensuring that every household, every business, and every community has access to the transformative power of electricity. The evidence is clear: the solar energy potential in Ghana is not just a fleeting aspiration; it is a tangible force that can propel the nation toward a future defined by sustainable progress.
