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A renowned Ghanaian energy expert, Captain Engineer Nill Armstrong, has stated that if Ghana can generate at least 1,000 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy, the country will no longer suffer from power shortages.
Speaking on Atinka TV’s Oman Mu Nsem show hosted by Nana Owoahene Acheampong, Engineer Armstrong emphasized that Ghana has the potential to produce sufficient electricity to meet its national demand. However, he pointed out that successive governments have failed to explore alternative energy sources effectively, leading to persistent energy crises.
He urged the government to prioritize investments in renewable energy, particularly solar power, to help stabilize the national grid and reduce the high cost of electricity. According to him, Ghana is currently paying too much for energy, and a shift to more affordable and sustainable sources would be beneficial.
“Ghana is blessed with abundant sunshine and strong wind currents, yet we continue to struggle with power shortages. If we focus on generating at least 1,000MW of renewable energy, we can allocate electricity efficiently, especially to industries with high energy consumption. This will help solve our power crisis once and for all,” he said.
Engineer Armstrong explained that renewable energy sources are sustainable, naturally replenishing, and environmentally friendly. He highlighted four main types of renewable energy that Ghana should invest in:
Solar Energy: Captures sunlight using photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate electricity. Given Ghana’s abundant sunlight, solar power is a viable solution.
Wind Energy: Utilizes wind turbines to convert kinetic energy into electricity. Wind power is one of the leading renewable energy sources worldwide.
Hydroelectric Power: Uses the movement of water to generate electricity, typically from dams, waves, and tides.
Bioenergy: Produces electricity by burning organic materials such as plants, wood, and food waste.
Engineer Armstrong also called for the removal of import duties on solar panels and other renewable energy equipment.
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He believes this will encourage businesses and individuals to adopt solar power, thereby easing pressure on the national grid.
“It is time we rethink our energy strategy. We must introduce policies that make it easier for industries and households to access renewable energy solutions. Duty-free imports on solar panels, for instance, will encourage more Ghanaians to embrace solar energy,” he added.
With Ghana still facing intermittent power outages, popularly known as Dumsor, the expert stressed that investing in renewable energy is the most effective way to secure the country’s energy future. He urged policymakers to act swiftly to harness Ghana’s natural resources and transition toward a more sustainable and reliable energy system.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Barima Kwaku Saakwa