Concern about the environment has been on the rise for decades: as the human population swells and resources dwindle, governments and organizations have stepped in to address concerns over a sustainable future. In West Africa, Ghana recently hosted to a renewable energy fair. If its efforts come to pass, then it may help solve problems in the country and beyond.
The Renewable Energy Fair started on November 3rd, 2015, and continued for three days in the capital city of Accra. Organized by the Ghana Energy Commission in juncture with the German Trade Delegation, the fair was organized in the hopes of finding a way to explore new, efficient means to develop sustainable and renewable energy technology. The conferences held during the fair aimed to confirm the status of environmental developments, all of which would comply with the Renewable Energy Act of 2011. While that includes laying the groundwork for future technology, Ghana’s Minister of Power made sure to note the status of present efforts, such as the mini-grid construction for homes near the Volta Lake.
The Energy Commission and its associates hope to use technology to safely improve the standard of living. During the fair’s conferences, the Minister of Power pointed out that more 90,000 homes throughout the country had adopted green systems like solar power. Still, the consensus was that more could be done, especially if it meant helping Ghana move away from its dependency on hydroelectric power. By doing so, it could not only cut down on greenhouse gases released, but also help the country achieve parity with others whose use of renewable resources have dramatically lowered electricity prices.
Ghana is in a unique position because it has the potential to become a central hub for renewable resources. German officials have already begun to pledge their support, including Ambassador Rudiger John. With the European country’s support of Ghana’s efforts, hope is that the inequality gap will shrink at home and abroad. Developing renewable energy technology means developing new economic opportunities, which can curb poverty throughout the country, as well as give incentives for greater education. If all goes as planned, then businesses and the public alike will reap the rewards.
The Energy Commission behind the fair works in conjunction with the Council of State of the Republic, as well as the President of Ghana. As such, they all campaign for the social and economic health of the people, with environmental quality acting as a stimulus. Notably, the Renewable Energy Fair of 2015 is merely the first convening on this issue; there are plans to make the assemblies and conferences into an annual event. August 2016 will see the fair’s return, with the intent to cement Ghana‘s ascent into a leading figure in energy planning and development.
