Mafikope: The Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN), through its Renewable Energy Working Group, has successfully installed and commissioned a 6kWp + 10kWh off-grid rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system to power a community centre in Mafikope, located in the Kwahu Afram Plains North District of the Eastern Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the project is an effort to encourage community-designed solar systems and ensure that underserved communities have equitable access to clean energy. Mafikope, a peninsula community with about 500 residents, has historically been disconnected from the national electricity grid. This disconnect has impacted residents' productivity and limited educational and livelihood opportunities.
The initiative began with a community profiling exercise conducted by AJTN in three island communities, including Mafikope, to understand their energy challenges. The findings showed significant constraints, from the inability to use ICT facilities to difficulties in preserving fish and crop produce.
Mrs. Patricia Odeibea Bekoe, Co-Facilitator of AJTN's Renewable Energy Working Group, emphasized the importance of community-led solutions for advancing energy access and justice. 'The Mafikope community solar centre symbolises empowerment through clean energy and demonstrates how renewable power can drive social and economic transformation,' she stated.
Mafikope was chosen for the project due to its strong community readiness and commitment. The community provided the building for the solar installation, while AJTN funded and installed the solar system, creating a 'community solar centre.'
The PV system, designed by International Climate and Energy Consult (ICEC) and installed by Echoace Energy Solutions Limited, includes solar panels, hybrid inverters, and battery storage to ensure a continuous power supply. Post-installation maintenance training was also provided to selected youth to ensure the project's sustainability.
Currently, the system provides lighting and electrical outlets for six rooms. The community plans to convert some rooms into a computer lab and library for children, a cold storage facility, and an entertainment centre to improve social life and livelihoods.
Ms. Marina Agortimevor, Coordinator of AJTN, noted that the project is part of the network's effort to scale up community-based renewable energy initiatives across Africa's off-grid communities. 'Through this project, we are showing what is possible. We remain committed to ensuring Africa's transition to clean energy is fair, inclusive, and locally driven,' she said.
Community leaders expressed their gratitude to AJTN, highlighting that having electricity would bring positive change and development to Mafikope. The commissioning was celebrated with music, dance, and festivities as community members expressed optimism that the solar project would enhance education, healthcare delivery, and overall living standards.
