CEPUR hosts 2025 policy dialogue on accelerating Ghana’s energy transition

The Center of Excellence in Public Regulation (CEPUR), a collaborative initiative between the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), has successfully hosted a high-level dialogue on sustainable energy policy.

Themed “Accelerating Energy Transition in Ghana,” the event brought together energy experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to enhance competencies in the governance, regulation, and management of the electricity, water, and natural gas sectors, alongside other critical public utilities.

As a thought leader in public regulation, CEPUR continues to bridge the gap between academia and industry through cutting-edge research, providing data-driven insights that inform government policies, regulatory frameworks, and business strategies across Africa’s energy and water sectors.

A key report presented during the dialogue emphasized the urgent need for a green transition to an ecologically sustainable economy. It highlighted the importance of low-carbon solutions that preserve biodiversity and promote the responsible use of natural resources.

Government’s Commitment to Green Energy

Delivering the keynote address, Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, expressed gratitude to CEPUR for inviting him as the Guest of Honour at the event. Reflecting on his academic journey at GIMPA, where he earned a Master’s in Energy Economics, the Minister reaffirmed his dedication to Ghana’s green energy transition.

Hon. Jinapor announced that the government is actively working to establish the Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund. This initiative, aligned with the Renewable Energy Act and the President’s vision, aims to support research and the development of homegrown green technologies. The fund will finance:

• Solar-chargeable outboard motors for the fishing industry
• Solar panels for community-based health planning and services (CHPS) compounds
• Electric vehicle (EV) charging systems to support Ghana’s transition to electric mobility
• Solar irrigation facilities for the agricultural sector
• Energy-efficient solutions for hospitals, public schools, universities, and small and medium-scale enterprises.

The Minister further disclosed plans to deploy solar-powered streetlights nationwide, acknowledging challenges in the current streetlight management system. “In some areas, the streetlights barely come on. This new initiative will ensure sustainable and efficient lighting across the country,” he remarked.

Hon. Jinapor concluded by highlighting the evolving nature of the energy transition. “Previously viewed from an environmental perspective, the energy transition is now recognized as an economic imperative. We are committed to developing all our energy resources sustainably to drive economic growth and create jobs,” he affirmed.

GIMPA and its partners remain committed to fostering dialogues that drive impactful policy reforms, ensuring Ghana’s leadership in sustainable energy initiatives across Africa.