Sunyani: Ghana has secured $1 billion for climate financing, according to Mr. John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition. The funds will support key initiatives such as the Scaling-up Renewable Energy Program (SREP) and the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), while also assisting in the development of a project pipeline through the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Ghana Climate Innovation Centre.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Jinapor noted that the country's recently approved five-year Renewable Energy and Green Transition Action and Investment Plan is expected to deliver impactful interventions to accelerate sustainable energy. Mr. Jinapor's remarks were delivered by Mr. Seth A Mahu, Director of Renewable Energy and Green Transition at the Ministry, during a forum organized by the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani.
Mr. Jinapor emphasized that the investment plan is anchored in the National Energy Transition Framework and the Renewable Energy Master Plan, which includes initiatives such as smart solar street lighting, electric vehicle superchargers along major highways, and an increase in renewable energy capacity to at least 1,400 megawatts. The plan also aims for universal electrification, targeting 99.98 percent access to electricity nationwide by 2030.
The forum, organized by the University to mark its International Day Celebration, highlighted the institution's achievements and its commitment to strengthening international collaboration. The event focused on promoting internationalization, visibility, and impact through diversity and inclusion.
Mr. Jinapor further explained that the government has established the Renewable Energy and Green Transition Investment Fund to support transformative projects and promote innovation, research, and development. He highlighted the importance of human capital, stating that the nation's energy transition is fundamentally human and requires skills and innovation ecosystems.
The minister also mentioned collaboration with international partners like the International Solar Alliance and the World Bank for capacity building and establishing Centres of Excellence to develop human capital. Additionally, the government is investing in technical and vocational education, transforming selected training centers into regional hubs for green technologies.
Miss Linda Serwaa Mensah, the Principal Export Development Officer of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), added that the evolving global economic landscape necessitates a strategic approach to international trade. She highlighted the importance of educational diplomacy and international partnerships in fostering economic growth and opening avenues for trade and investment.
