Three Ada East Island communities get electricity for the first time

Three island communities in the Ada East District namely Azizakpe, Alorkem, and Aflive have received electricity for the first time following the commissioning of mini-grid electrification projects funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).

The initiative is expected to significantly enhance productivity, support local enterprises, and improve the overall living conditions in these previously underserved areas.

The mini-grids mark a major milestone in Ghana’s push to expand renewable energy access to remote communities.

At the commissioning ceremony, Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, indicated that over 3,000 residents will benefit from the project.

He also announced that the government is set to scale up its electrification efforts to reach 150 additional off-grid island and lake communities.

The move forms part of a broader strategy to extend electricity access to more than 250,000 people across the country as Ghana works toward achieving universal energy access.

“Very soon, we shall launch a bold program, a new program that seeks to bring on board over 250,000 people living across 150 island and lake communities allowing them to also have access to electricity. This is just the tip of the iceberg.

“We intend to pursue an ambitious and aggressive program where our ultimate objective will be to hook on 150 island and lake communities so that they can also get access to electricity. This initiative will certainly expand the reach of renewable energy to even more underserved areas, accelerating our efforts towards energy equity and inclusion and achieving our primary objective of hitting 99.8% access to electricity in line with our policy of light for life program,” the minister highlighted.

Swiss Ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger, also underscored the importance of sustainability in development projects. She urged stakeholders to ensure consistent maintenance of the new energy infrastructure to protect the investment and secure long-term benefits for the communities.

“It would be unfortunate if these mini grids are not properly maintained and operated. I am especially addressing the VRA in this regard as they serve as custodians of these assets. I am confident that we are leaving the mini grids in competent hands,” she remarked.

Ing. Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, Acting Chief Executive of the Volta River Authority (VRA), echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for effective and sustainable management of the mini-grids to ensure their continued operation and impact.

“As the operating entity, the Volta River Authority remains committed to the long term sustainability and efficient management of these assets. We are grateful to the Ministry for it assurance that it will provide the necessary support towards fully optimizing mini grid systems,” he stated