By Daniel Bampoe
Ghana’s ambitious plan to fully transition from fossil fuels to clean, sustainable energy sources by 2070 will come with a hefty price tag — an estimated $562 billion.
This was revealed by the Ministry for Energy and Green Transition during a key stakeholder engagement session in Accra on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
According to the Energy Ministry, the colossal investment needed will not rest solely on the shoulders of government.
Instead, funding is expected to come from a mix of public funds, private sector contributions, development partners, and multinational financial institutions.
Ghana’s Energy Evolution
Ghana’s energy sector has seen significant developments over the past two decades.
The country boasts over 89% electricity access nationwide — a notable achievement compared to many African counterparts.
However, this success has largely depended on hydroelectric and fossil fuel sources.
In response to the growing global push for climate action and clean energy adoption, Ghana launched its Energy Transition Framework in 2022 to serve as a roadmap toward net-zero emissions.
The framework aims to gradually shift the nation’s energy mix to include renewables such as solar, wind, and potentially nuclear energy.
It is also a response to global decarbonization efforts under agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord.
Ongoing Projects and Future Plans
Dr. Robert Sogbadji, Deputy Director for Renewables and Green Emerging Technologies at the Energy Ministry, highlighted Ghana’s tangible progress.
He cited the development of 33 new solar mini-grids dedicated to powering island and lakeside communities as a key component of the ongoing transformation.
These projects aim to bring renewable electricity to off-grid areas, reduce reliance on diesel-powered generators, and enhance energy equity.
“This transition is not an event; it is a process that must be embraced by all sectors and across all regions,” Dr. Sogbadji emphasized.
“We are already seeing progress, but we must increase awareness and ensure that every district and project takes into account the need for sustainability.”
One of the more transformative aspects of Ghana’s future energy landscape is the proposed nuclear energy project, with construction expected to begin in 2027.
This long-term project is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions and provide stable, large-scale electricity for industrial growth.
Financing the Transition
Dr. Sogbadji was clear that the $562 billion estimate encapsulates the cumulative costs over the next 45 years — covering infrastructure, technology, capacity building, and public engagement.
