The World Bank has pledged to support Ghana in increasing access to renewable energy, with a focus on delivering accessible, low-emission, reliable, and affordable electricity to businesses and individuals.
The Bank has also committed to supporting initiatives aimed at addressing perennial flooding in the country, including improving infrastructure to enhance flood resilience.
Mr. Wencai Zhang, the World Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Administrative Officer (MDCAO), gave these assurances over the weekend during a visit to several World Bank-supported projects in Ghana.
As part of his tour, Mr. Zhang visited Africa’s largest single solar rooftop project, commissioned in July 2024. Located within the Tema Free Zone, the 16.82-megawatt installation provides a cleaner and more cost-effective energy source for businesses.
He also inspected drainage works and large-scale flood management infrastructure under the Greater Accra Resilient and Integrated Development (GARID) project. This includes upgrades to the lower Odaw channel and Korle Lagoon, aimed at reducing flood risk, improving solid waste management, and enhancing access to basic services in communities within the Odaw River Basin.
Mr. Zhang concluded his visit at the redeveloped Kwame Nkrumah Memorial and Mausoleum Park, a flagship site completed under the World Bank-funded Ghana Tourism Development Project (GTDP).
Speaking with management of LMI Holdings, the developers of the solar rooftop project, Mr. Zhang emphasized the World Bank’s continued commitment to supporting sustainable and resilient infrastructure that generates both social and economic benefits.
He expressed confidence that the 16.82MW solar project would significantly lower energy costs, enhance efficiency in the energy sector, and contribute to reducing emissions.
“Looking ahead, we are working on new projects to support the government’s industrialisation drive and expand renewable energy development in Ghana. These initiatives will take our cooperation to a new level,” Mr. Zhang stated.
“We will not only provide financing but also share global best practices on how other countries are reforming their energy sectors to develop renewable sources like rooftop solar,” he added.
Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Mr. John Abdulai Jinapor, lauded the World Bank for its support and affirmed the government’s commitment to integrating more solar energy into the national grid.
He encouraged LMI Holdings to take interest in future projects and offer competitive pricing as Ghana prepares to launch an all-in-one solar system for streetlights.
— GNA
