In a series of national awareness campaigns and trainings held by the Energy Commission, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), with funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana’s Climate Promise project, the general citizenry, public and private institutions were engaged on the new energy efficiency regulations in Ghana.

From the shores of Takoradi and Ho, through the plush greens of Koforidua and Kumasi, to the transition and savanna zones of Sunyani, Tamale, Damongo and Wa, to name a few, the collaborative effort in organizing town hall meetings and radio outreach campaigns, raised the salient awareness about energy efficiency and promoted the adoption of energy-efficient appliances, while fostering a culture of sustainability.

Abdul-Razak Saeed, Head of the Environment and Climate Cluster of UNDP in Ghana, reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to supporting Ghana in achieving its climate goals.

He emphasized, “UNDP is dedicated to advancing energy efficiency in Ghana, a crucial step towards realizing the Sustainable Development Goals and fulfilling Ghana’s Climate Promise. By championing the adoption of energy-efficient appliances and measures, we are reducing energy use demand, and thereby supporting greenhouse gas emission reductions, towards a better climate. This joint initiative marks a significant milestone in building a sustainable and resilient energy future, driving economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for communities across Ghana”.

Mr. Hubert Nsoh Zan, Assistant Manager, Energy Efficiency Regulations, at the Energy Commission, called on importers to comply with the Energy Efficiency Appliance Regulations in support of combating climate change. He stressed the importance of meeting the established Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPs) to prevent substandard, and highly intensive energy consuming products from flooding the Ghanaian market.

Since 2013-2022, the commission's efforts to improve energy use efficiency has resulted in a total savings of 7,955 Gigawatt hours which is about 54% of the total Thermal generation in 2022. To build on this success, the commission has implemented measures such as verification, manufacturer engagement, and public exposure of non-compliant importers.

Consumers are also empowered to verify appliances using the GH-certified app and QR code.

"The Standard and Labeling program is designed to empower consumers by educating them on energy efficiency labels, which indicates key parameters like energy consumption and star ratings, ultimately informing their purchasing decisions. As a regulator, the Energy Commission is committed to serving as a referee between manufacturers, importers, and consumers, guaranteeing that only high-grade electrical appliances that meet Ghana's standards enter the market," he added.

The campaign which included both physical and radio interactions, on the new energy efficiency regulations and conservation measures, with hopes that adoption and compliance will be geared up in organizations and across several households. Mr. Richard Donkor, Manager of Energy Efficiency at the Commission, urged Ghanaians to adopt best practices that protect the environment and benefit consumers. He emphasized, "When purchasing energy-efficient products, invest in appliances with higher star ratings, as they are more efficient. Prioritize features over style and price, choosing products that use minimal energy without compromising quality".

He further indicated that improving energy efficiency reduces excessive energy consumption and decreases generation capacity expansion, leading to lower fuel costs and freeing up funds for critical areas of the economy. This, in turn, enables consumers to use less energy to operate their appliances, access more brands and features, and benefit from market transformation and enhanced competition. Additionally, reducing energy consumption decreases carbon emissions from fossil-fuel power plants and prevents the country from becoming a dumping ground for obsolete appliances.

Abel Kwame Kusi, a media personality from Abusua FM in Kumasi, shared his novel perspective: "I have to admit, I used to think secondhand goods were of good quality and just a way to save some cash. But this town hall meeting has completely changed my perspective. Hearing about the devastating impact of substandard appliances on our environment and economy before the ban on secondhand appliances was a real wake-up call. I was thrilled to have won an energy-efficient microwave for participating in the quiz segment. Now, I'm excited to share what I've learned with my audience at Abusua FM and inspire others to join me in making positive changes. Together, we can make a difference and create a more sustainable future for our communities and our country".

The town hall meetings took place in eight regional capitals, with participation from media personnel and representatives from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies across the following cities: Takoradi, Ho, Koforidua, Kumasi, Sunyani, Tamale, Bolgatanga, and Wa. Simultaneously, 14 radio stations with high listenership and wide coverage in identified towns (Takoradi, Cape Coast, Ho, Koforidua, Nkawkaw, Kumasi, Ejisu, Duayaw Nkwanta, Sunyani, Tamale, Bolgatanga, Navrongo, Damongo, and Wa) were selected for the radio sensitization campaign and phone-in sessions.

As part of the strategies to increase traction for the new energy efficiency regulations, a question-and-answer quiz was held on selected radio stations to gauge participants' awareness and knowledge of the regulations. Prior to the radio quiz, jingles and live promotional messages (LPMs) were broadcast for approximately twenty days, highlighting key features of the regulations and their benefits. Participants who provided accurate responses, received energy-efficient appliances, including irons, cookers, blenders, LED bulbs, microwaves, and kettles. The Consumer Electronics and Home Appliances Alliance Ghana supported the nationwide awareness campaign by EC, MESTI and UNDP, by providing the prize items donated as rewards to radio listeners and cross-section of townhall meeting participants.