Morris Mensah

Background to the Study Ghana, like many countries, faces a pressing need to transition from fossil fuel-based energy systems to more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives. Among the various renewable energy options available, solar energy stands out due to its vast potential and the fact that it aligns well with Ghana’s geographical advantages, including high solar irradiance. However, despite the potential of solar energy, its development in Ghana is impeded by inadequate policy and regulatory frameworks. As of 2019, Ghana's electricity generation primarily relies on thermal and hydropower plants. Although the country has a relatively high electricity access rate compared to its neighbors, it has faced frequent power interruptions and load shedding. These disruptions result from a deficit in available capacity relative to installed capacity, negatively impacting growth, particularly in the industrial sector. The deficit in hydro generation can be attributed to the effects of climate change, which have reduced water volumes in the Volta Lake, compounded by the damming of the White Volta—a tributary to the Volta Lake—by Burkina Faso for hydropower purposes. Given these challenges, modern renewable energy sources such as solar, offers a viable alternative for achieving universal electricity access by 2030. These sources are particularly crucial for rural and off-grid communities and play a significant role in supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Addressing the subject of solar panel development in Ghana is crucial as it will provides valuable insights for program design and implementation. Further, understanding these dynamics is essential for crafting policies that enhance the synergy between financial resources and renewable energy initiatives.