Story By: Mabel Adorkor Annang
The Eastern Regional Office of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), now operates outside the national grid after inaugurating a 128kwp solar installation at its premises in Koforidua.
The electricity costs at the regional office reduced by 75 percent after the installation of a 93kWp rooftop solar system in 2022.
Inaugurating the 128-kilowatt peak solar photovoltaic system, the Executive Secretary of PURC, Dr. Ishmael Ackah, said the project demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to promoting renewable energy.
Funded by the German Development Cooperation, GIZ, the project is a significant milestone in the nation’s drive towards energy sustainability and efficiency.
The 128kwp installation, which comprises a 93kWp rooftop solar system and 35kWp system on the carport, showcases PURC’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions.
The Commission plans to contribute to the national grid by feeding excess power into the net metering system when it becomes operational.
Executive Secretary of PURC, Dr. Ishmael Ackah, expressed gratitude to GIZ for the support and announced plans to construct green buildings in Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi next year.
Touching on the Energy Transition, Dr. Ackah explained, “the Energy Transition goes beyond just environmental benefits, cutting carbon is very important. But the energy transition has proven, empirical economic benefits. When we commissioned this building, we were paying 16,000 a month in electricity bills. When we started using just the rooftop solar, our bill dropped from 16,000 to 4000.
Now if we add the carport to it, we are going to generate more than we need. What it means is that we are going to pay zero bills and even export the excess power to the grid. That is the power of the transition.”
A Board Member of the Energy Commission, Mrs. Dora Oppong, encouraged public and private sector stakeholders to embrace sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the PURC’s initiative as a model for other institutions.
“This project is a practical demonstration of how institutions, through sustainable efforts, can make substantial contributions to our nation’s energy goals while reducing environmental impact,” Mrs. Oppong urged.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Mr. Seth Kwame Acheampong, emphasised the need for collaboration to harness Ghana’s energy resources.
Gyaasehene of New Juaben Traditional Area, Nana Twumasi Dankwah, commended GIZ and other partners for supporting Ghana in its renewable energy agenda.
