Accra: The Association of Ghana Industries - Energy Service Centre (AGI-ESC), with support from the World Bank, has officially launched the Energy Smart Businesses pilot initiative to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
According to Ghana News Agency, the project aims to assist SMEs in the agribusiness, garment/textiles, and hospitality sectors by helping them reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and improve sustainability through tailored technical support. Over the next six months, 35 selected businesses across Ghana will benefit from free on-site energy audits, customized energy-saving recommendations, hands-on training for staff, and an opportunity to join a national energy efficiency peer learning network.
Baerbel Freyer, Chief Technical Officer of the AGI-ESC, emphasized the importance of SMEs to Ghana's economy, noting that they face high energy costs that limit growth. The pilot project is designed to provide the necessary tools and expertise to help businesses operate more efficiently and competitively, enabling them to serve as pioneers and role models for other SMEs through energy efficiency measures.
The Energy Smart Businesses pilot project is expected to demonstrate the potential for scaling energy efficiency interventions nationwide and to enhance local capacity in sustainable energy management. The initiative is funded by the World Bank, and interested companies can apply online via www.agiesc.com before September 30, 2025. The selection will prioritize businesses with significant energy usage and strong potential for impact.
