Energy experts in the Sub region and beyond have converged on Accra for the 3rd Edition of the ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum and Exhibition.
Focused on Achieving Sustainable Energy Targets in ECOWAS, the forum seeks to find ways to ensure that the Sub region moves towards a more sustainable renewable energy.
Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia who officially opened the forum, called on member countries to deepen efforts in order to achieve ECOWAS set energy targets by 2020 and also the SDGs 7.
He said Ghana for its part is working to improve the generation mix that will improve the country’s power system.
He indicated that Ghana has also increased its exports of power to neighboring countries.
Hosted by the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE) the forum seeks to promote exchange of ideas and cooperation to support the acceleration of sustainable solutions for the region’s energy situation.
The forum will also facilitate the networking and partnerships between ECOWAS policy makers, regional and international private sector players and financial institutions to foster concrete progress in the implementation of the ECOWAS region’s sustainable energy targets by 2020.
Vice President Bawumia said although some progress has been made, there is still the need to work towards achieving set goals especially as the deadline approaches. He called for more commitment by all stakeholders .
Vice President Dr. Bawumia outlined some measures government has put in place to improve Ghana’s energy sector. He announced Ghana’s plans to export power to the Sahel.
In July 2013, regional policies on renewable energy and energy efficiency were adopted by ECOWAS Heads of State with the task to achieve ambitious targets by 2020.
The forum will thus provide participants the opportunity to take stock and chart a way forward.
Story filed by Mercy Darko
