Electric Vehicle: Gov't urges private sector investments into solar-powered charging stations

Government urged the private sector to invest in solar-powered electric charging systems as the nation transitions to EV transportation. Joyce Caitlyn Ocansey, the Programme Coordinator of the Drive Electric Programme of the Energy Commission (EC), gave the advice. She emphasised that the government remained dedicated to allowing the private sector to lead the EV charging system; however, the nation prioritised solar-powered energy systems.

Mrs. Ocansey indicated that the government prioritised the solar-powered EV charging stations because that system remained cleaner, promoted the sustainable energy sector, and well-positioned the nation to meet its climate obligations. The EV sector would also create employment opportunities, as the EC intends to train certified wiring professionals, electricians, and installers. About 17 million vehicles, representing 20% of all vehicles sold globally in 2024, were EVs; Africa's share was only one percent. Professor Evans Zoya Kpamma, the Pro-Vice Chancellor of the STU, described the sensitisation as useful and urged the nation to up-scale measures towards transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

Professor Kpamma said the STU Centre of Excellence was open to private-sector partnerships, calling for more investment in the nation's renewable energy sector, adding that the university remained committed to helping advance the nation's EV sector. The participants were taken through four EV charging models and the motorcycle battery swap systems. The stakeholder awareness and sensitisation exercise on the Electric Vehicle Charging System and Swap System Regulation 2026 was organised by the commission and held at the Centre of Excellence of the Sunyani Technical University (STU) in Sunyani.