Ghana has inaugurated a large-scale renewable energy initiative aimed at delivering clean, sustainable electricity to tens of thousands in underserved communities, in partnership with key international stakeholders.

The programme marks the start of the Scaling-Up Renewable Energy Programme (SREP). Once completed, it is expected to provide power to over 70,000 people, helping bridge Ghana’s rural-urban electricity divide, the Daily Graphic writes.

Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, said: “As a Ministry, we are not just installing solar panels or building infrastructure. We are lighting up lives, empowering communities, and bridging the rural-urban energy divide.”

The SREP will see the construction of 35 mini grids and the installation of 1,450 solar home systems across the Bono East, Oti, and Savannah regions. Additionally, 12,000 net-metered rooftop solar PV systems will be rolled out nationwide as part of Ghana’s broader shift towards green energy.

Backed by the Climate Investment Fund, the Swiss Government, and the African Development Bank (AfDB), the project also aligns with Ghana’s ambition to achieve universal electricity access by 2030.

Jinapor paid tribute to residents in off-grid areas who have waited years for electricity and called for local ownership of the new infrastructure.

“We are confident that by 2030, we will have over 200 mini grids operational, delivering on our last-mile electrification target of 99.8%,” he said as quoted by the Daily Graphic.

He revealed that feasibility studies had already been completed for 150 island and lakeside communities in the Afram Plains, with plans underway to construct an additional 150 mini grids.

Speaking on behalf of the Swiss Ambassador, Deputy Head of Cooperation Magdalena Wüst reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s clean energy transition.

“Energy security is essential for any nation’s development,” she noted, referencing the strong bilateral relationship under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which promotes joint climate action. “Switzerland remains committed to supporting Ghana in achieving access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for all.”

Eunice Biritwum, Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, expressed pride in the Commission’s involvement in the SREP, which she said had been in development since 2013/2014.

The Volta River Authority (VRA) will oversee the operation of the mini grids.