West Africa: Ghana Unveils West Africa's Largest Floating Solar Project, Boosting Renewable Energy Ambitions

Accra — Ghana has launched West Africa's largest floating solar project. This is a major step towards increasing renewable energy capacity. The country aims to raise its renewable energy share from 1% to 10% by 2030.

The new 5-megawatt floating solar installation is on the Black Volta River. It was engineered by Ghanaian engineers from the Bui Power Authority (BPA). This project shows Ghana's commitment to clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.

The floating solar power plant uses photovoltaic modules on water bodies. This optimizes land use and enhances solar panel efficiency. It also helps conserve water by reducing evaporation from the surface. This technology can be used on ponds, lakes, reservoirs, or other water bodies.

The project's completion aligns with Ghana's National Energy Plan. It supports the goal of increasing renewable energy penetration to 10% by 2030.

Peter Acheampong, Deputy Director of Renewable Energy at BPA, said, "We have completed the 5-megawatt project, and it is already generating power." He also mentioned plans to expand the project: "We aim to scale it up to about 65 megawatts."

The Bui Power Authority has made significant progress in renewable energy. Before this floating solar project, BPA commissioned a solar farm in 2020 that generates 50 megawatts of power. The two projects together cost $48 million.

These solar plants are crucial for diversifying Ghana's energy mix. Other operational solar power plants include Kaleo Solar Plant (13 megawatts), Lawra Solar Plant (6.5 megawatts), and Navrongo Solar Plant (2.5 megawatts). These three projects cost €50.8 million.

Individuals are increasingly investing in renewable energy as well. Helios Solar Energy has commissioned Africa's largest rooftop solar installation. This 16.82-megawatt photovoltaic plant was financed by the International Finance Corporation at a cost of $17 million.