In Ghana, a significant stride towards sustainable energy and a greener future has been taken. Doris Dodo, Deputy Director of Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy, announced that the country has completed the draft of a policy for electric vehicles (EVs) with the goal of developing the electric car sector and achieving carbon neutrality by 2070.
The Global Shift to Electric Cars
Across the globe, several major automotive markets have been making bold moves to promote electric vehicles as the primary option. Many governments have set ambitious targets to ban the sale of gas and diesel-powered vehicles entirely by 2040. Countries like China, the world’s largest automotive market, the United Kingdom, and various European nations are among those leading the charge in this shift towards sustainable transportation.
Embracing Solar Power for Sustainable Mobility
Ghana’s Urgent Message: A Joyful Outlook on Electric Cars, In addition to the ongoing discoveries of oil and gas reserves, Ghana recognizes the immense potential of solar energy. The country can harness this clean and sustainable energy source to power its electric vehicles, contributing to a cleaner environment and reduced carbon emissions.
Limited Availability of Charging Stations and EV Dealers
As of now, Ghana has only two public charging stations for electric vehicles, both located in the capital city, Accra. Furthermore, there are only three dealers offering electric cars with maintenance facilities and trained technicians. However, many more dealers are showing interest in adopting electric vehicle maintenance practices, paving the way for a promising future.
A Look at Ghana’s Electric Vehicle Imports
Between January 2017 and December 2021, Ghana imported approximately 17,660 electric vehicles. This number indicates a growing interest and acceptance of electric mobility in the country.
The Robust Energy Capacity of Ghana
According to Ghana’s Ministry of Energy, the country’s power generation capacity stands at an impressive 5,400 megawatts. This capacity far exceeds the current peak demand, which hovers around 3,700 megawatts. The abundant energy resources provide Ghana with the potential to cater to the rising demand for electric vehicles efficiently.
Ghana’s commitment to crafting a comprehensive policy for electric vehicles signals a promising step towards a sustainable future. By embracing electric mobility and leveraging its solar energy potential, the country aims to reduce its carbon footprint significantly. With growing interest from dealers and consumers alike, Ghana’s electric vehicle market is expected to flourish in the coming years.
