Board Members and stakeholders in group photograph
The Energy Commission has taken a major step toward advancing electric mobility in the country as it works to align the country’s transport sector with its long-term plan to phase out Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles by 2070.
The move forms part of broader national efforts to promote sustainable transportation and reduce carbon emissions in line with global climate commitments.
The proposed regulations are designed to establish comprehensive safety and technical standards for EV charging infrastructure and battery swap systems to guide the country’s transition to electric mobility under a strong regulatory framework.
Project Coordinator of the Drive Electric Initiative (DEI) Joyce Ocansey, speaking at a workshop in Ho, said the initiative, launched in 2019, has been instrumental in promoting electric vehicle adoption nationwide.
According to Ms Ocansey, the Commission has since 2019 undertaken extensive awareness creation and stakeholder engagements to prepare the country for e-mobility.
These efforts, she said, include hosting an E-mobility Conference in 2021 and a series of public charging forums in 2022 to educate policymakers, industry players, and the public on the requirements and benefits of EV adoption.
Deputy Director of Energy Efficiency Regulation at the Commission, Kennedy Amankwa, disclosed that the Commission has collaborated with the Ministry to develop and gazette standards for EV charging facilities in 2023.
He noted that the draft regulations are being prepared as a Legislative Instrument for submission to Parliament to enforce the adopted standards and ensure compliance with international regulations governing EV infrastructure.
He explained that the proposed regulations will ensure compatibility across charging systems, safeguard public health and safety, and promote the safe transfer of EV technology into the Ghanaian market.
The framework, he added, will provide clarity for investors and operators while protecting consumers from substandard equipment and unsafe installations, thereby boosting public confidence in electric mobility.
The Board Chairman of the Commission, Prof. John Gatsi, stated that the draft regulations are structured into four key parts to ensure clarity and effective governance of the emerging EV ecosystem.
He indicated that once passed, the regulations will empower the Commission to regulate and license activities across the EV infrastructure value chain, including manufacturing, assembly, importation, installation, and operation of charging equipment and battery swap systems.
From Daniel K Orlando, Ho