The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) in partnership with GIZ commissioned a 128 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) installation at the PURC Eastern Regional Office. The project was sponsored by the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implementated by GIZ. The event, which took place on Thursday, November 14, 2024, was under the theme “Guiding the Green Revolution through Regulatory Leadership and Sustainable Partnership”. The theme adequately captures the work of the PURC and emcompasses its role as leaders and collaborators in advancing Ghana’s renewable energy landscape.
In his welcome address, Dr. Ishmael Ackah, Executive Secretary for PURC, highlighted the significance of the project, which is aimed at reducing energy consumption from the national grid by 70%. He emphasized the importance of considering energy transition for its dual benefits of saving the environment while being economically viable to undertake. According to experts, the energy transition can lead to improved energy efficiency, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy bills.
According to Dr. Ackah the key benefits of energy transition among others are environmental; the reduction in Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, improved air quality, and the mitigation of climate change. The economic benefits; are job creation, business opportunities, and increased economic growth. The social benefits include, improved health, increased energy access, and reduced energy poverty.
Dr. Ackah thanked BMZ and GIZ for their immense support and requested that they continue to collaborate and support the Commission's subsequent green projects. He also urged utility companies to prepare and position themselves to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the energy transition. By doing so, these companies can contribute to a sustainable future and benefit from the transition's economic and environmental advantages.
On behalf of the Board Chairman of the PURC, Mr. Ebo B. Quagrainie, Mrs. Dora Oppong, a Board Member and Chairperson of the Finance and Administration Committee, explained that, energy is not merely a utility but a driver of socio-economic growth, essential for the progress of any modern society. “This solar installation, generously sponsored by GIZ goes beyond infrastructure; it stands as an investment in a clean and green future. In alignment with Ghana’s renewable energy targets, this project showcases PURC’s dedication to sustainability, energy efficiency, and innovation in the energy landscape”.
Mrs. Oppong expressed her deepest gratitude to GIZ, for their steadfast support. “Your commitment to renewable energy development in Ghana has been instrumental in transforming this vision into reality. We deeply value this collaboration and look forward to exploring new avenues to benefit both our communities and our environment”.
The installation of this 128 kWp solar power system will enable PURC to promote energy efficiency while reducing our operational costs among other institutions. This project is a practical demonstration of how institutions, through sustainable efforts can make substantial contributions to our nation’s energy goals while reducing environmental impact.
Mr. Tangmar Marmon, Cluster Coordinator of Renewable Energies and Energy Efficiency for Climate Protection Project (SustainE4Climate) for GIZ, on his part, explained that the project seeks to improve the financial sustainability of the energy sector and the framework conditions to promote investments in renewable energies and energy efficiency, thereby strengthening Ghana's climate goals and sustainable and inclusive economic development. He further stated that the project demonstrates how public facilities can achieve significant electricity savings and cost reductions.
He indicated that the support for PURC falls under Output 4 (SustainE4Climate Project), in which GIZ seeks to continue implementing energy efficiency (EE) and renewable energy (RE) measures in selected public institutions at national and sub-national levels from the predecessor project REEE Public (2019 – 2021).
In his closing remarks, Nana Twumasi Dankwah, Gyaasehene of New Juaben Traditional Area, applauded the PURC for setting an example for sustainable development and appealed to the Management of the Commission to create the necessary ambience for staff to work and urged staff to be diligent at their jobs.
