In 2023, Ghana's electricity generation predominantly relies on fossil energy sources, making up almost two-thirds of the mix, with a particular emphasis on gas, which accounts for nearly 60% of the total electricity produced. In contrast, Ghana's low-carbon energy sources, primarily hydropower, contribute to a little less than 40% of its electricity supply. Hydropower alone constitutes almost the entire low-carbon share, comprising nearly 38% of the total electricity generation. The reliance on fossil fuels, with their known negative impacts on climate change and air pollution, highlights an area where improvements can be made in terms of sustainable energy development.

Is Electricity Growing in Ghana?

Electricity consumption in Ghana is experiencing growth, albeit at a modest pace. In 2023, the electricity consumption per person reached 719 kWh, a slight increase from the previous record of 700 kWh per person in 2022. This increase of 18 kWh per person signifies a positive but modest growth in electricity consumption. However, despite the increase in overall consumption, the contribution from low-carbon sources has diminished over the years. The 2023 low-carbon electricity generation per person stands at 277 kWh, which is 167 kWh less than the historic peak of low-carbon generation in 1980. This decline in low-carbon energy generation is concerning and underscores the need for strategic interventions to revitalize this sector.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation in Ghana, learning from successful countries in adopting nuclear and solar technologies could provide viable solutions. For instance, countries like France and Slovakia generate substantial portions of their electricity from nuclear power, reaching over 65%. Similarly, regions such as Nevada and California have made significant strides with solar energy contributing more than 30% to their electricity mix. Ghana could explore similar pathways by investing in solar and considering nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy. This approach would not only enhance energy security and meet growing electricity demands but also align with global sustainability goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting greener, cleaner energy sources.

History

In the history of low-carbon electricity in Ghana, hydropower has experienced fluctuating patterns of growth and decline. During the early to mid-1980s, Ghana saw modest increases in hydroelectric generation followed by a particularly notable dip in 1983 with a decrease of 2.3 TWh. The late 1990s and early 2000s brought about several years of decline, including a fall of 3 TWh in 1998. However, the early 2000s saw some recovery, culminating in a marked resurgence in 2008 with a rise of 2.5 TWh in hydroelectric power. More recent years have seen smaller fluctuations, with a positive growth of 1 TWh in 2023. As Ghana looks toward the future, it will be important to build on this history by increasing investments in stable, low-carbon technologies such as nuclear and solar to ensure a more consistent and substantial contribution to the energy mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade