Damilola Ogunbiyi and President Akufo-Addo
Consultations on Ghana’s much-anticipated energy transition and investment plan has taken place in Accra, as diverse stakeholders from government, the private sector, youth and civil-society organizations offered feedback on the plan ahead of its launch.
This energy transition and investment plan is expected to serve as the government’s main roadmap for achieving universal energy access and net-zero carbon emissions, as expressed under the country’s current Energy Transition Framework and Nationally Determined Contributions, while fostering economic growth and protecting jobs.
President Akufo-Addo and Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, and Co-Chair of UN-Energy, engaged in discussions to discuss the plan’s findings and recommendations, ensuring it is backed from the highest levels of government.
Ogunbiyi also participated in an inter-ministerial committee meeting, where she briefed ministers on how the plan is designed to support the work of various ministries, including environment, transportation, industry, and others.
She said feedback from all consultations is guiding the plan’s finalization, with its launch expected to happen this fall.
“It was a pleasure to meet with President Akufo-Addo, government ministers, local community groups and youth this week and hear first-hand how committed they are to a just and equitable energy transition.,” she said.
Madam Ogunbiyi said the country’s commitment has translated to an ambitious energy transition and investment plan that builds a case for changes across its entire energy system.
“These changes present a tremendous opportunity for partners and investors from around the world to contribute to climate action and sustainable development in Ghana,” said Madam Ogunbiyi.
President Akufo-Addo reiterated the country’s commitment to a clean, equitable energy transition that harnesses the full potential of renewable sources and energy efficiency.
“However, ambition alone will not transform our energy systems, which is why we embarked on creating an energy transition and investment plan that details what is needed to reach our goals.
I look forward to working with international partners to realize the many opportunities presented in this plan,” he said.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri