Three island communities in the Ada East District—Azizakpe, Alorkem, and Aflive—have received electricity for the first time due to the launch of mini-grid electrification projects financed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
This initiative is anticipated to greatly boost productivity, support local businesses, and enhance the overall quality of life in these previously neglected regions.
Introducing mini-grids represents a significant advancement in Ghana’s efforts to broaden renewable energy access to remote communities.
During the commissioning ceremony, John Jinapor, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, stated that more than 3,000 residents will benefit from this project.
He also revealed that the government plans to expand its electrification initiatives to include 150 additional off-grid island and lake communities.
This effort is part of a larger strategy aimed at providing electricity access to over 250,000 individuals nationwide as Ghana strives to achieve universal energy access.
“Shortly, we will unveil an ambitious new program designed to provide electricity to over 250,000 individuals living in 150 island and lake communities. This is merely the beginning.
“Our goal is to implement a comprehensive and proactive program that will connect 150 island and lake communities to the electricity grid. This initiative will undoubtedly extend the reach of renewable energy to even more underserved areas, propelling our mission towards energy equity and inclusion, and helping us achieve our primary target of 99.8% electricity access in accordance with our ‘light for life’ policy,” the minister emphasized.
Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger, emphasized the critical role of sustainability in development initiatives. She called on stakeholders to prioritize the ongoing maintenance of the new energy infrastructure to safeguard investments and ensure lasting advantages for local communities.
“It would be regrettable if these mini grids are not adequately maintained and operated. I specifically direct this message to the VRA, as they are the stewards of these assets. I am confident that we are entrusting the mini grids to capable hands,” she stated.
Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, the Acting Chief Executive of the Volta River Authority (VRA), supported her views, highlighting the necessity for effective and sustainable management of the mini-grids to guarantee their ongoing functionality and impact.
“As the entity responsible for operations, the Volta River Authority is dedicated to the long-term sustainability and efficient management of these assets. We appreciate the Ministry’s commitment to providing the essential support needed to fully optimize the mini grid systems,” he remarked.
