“Ghana to Deploy Solar Irrigation Pumps and Rooftop Solutions with International Collaboration”
"Ghana to Deploy Solar Irrigation Pumps and Rooftop Solutions with International Collaboration"
“Ghana to Deploy Solar Irrigation Pumps and Rooftop Solutions with International Collaboration”
Story by Fada Amakye
Ghana has taken a significant step towards harnessing the power of solar energy to drive economic growth and development. The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, has announced plans to deploy solar irrigation pumps across the country, particularly in areas that rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture.
The solar irrigation pumps will enable Ghanaians to engage in productive agricultural activities all year round, regardless of the season. This initiative is expected to boost food production and improve the livelihoods of farmers. Ghana aims to learn from India’s experience in pioneering solar irrigation pumps and has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to facilitate technology transfer and collaboration.
The initiative has several key features, including local content development, solar rooftop solutions, and upgrade solutions. The collaboration will promote local content development, including training Ghanaian artisans and technicians to deploy and maintain solar pumps. Ghana also plans to deploy solar rooftop solutions to critical institutions in areas without access to electricity and is working on deploying upgrade solutions to further enhance its energy infrastructure.
The benefits of the initiative are numerous. Solar irrigation pumps will enable farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, increasing food production and improving food security. The initiative is also expected to create jobs for Ghanaian artisans and technicians who will be trained to deploy and maintain solar pumps. Furthermore, the project aligns with Ghana’s vision to have a minimum of 10% of its energy mix emanating from renewables, excluding hydro potentials.
By leveraging international collaboration and expertise, Ghana is poised to make significant strides in its renewable energy development and improve the lives of its citizens.
