The Energy Ministry has successfully supplied 420,000 clean cookstoves to rural communities throughout Ghana.

Deputy Minister of Energy, Herbert Krappa, emphasized that the government remains dedicated to providing clean and cost-effective energy solutions for the citizens of Ghana.

Addressing attendees at the 12th Sustainable Education and Development Conference held at the University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Deputy Minister Herbert Krappa highlighted the nation's commitment to achieving a 10% modern renewable energy capacity within the national energy blend by 2030.

In addition to this, the Energy Ministry has reported the discovery of significant quantities of vital "green" minerals, such as lithium and graphite, within Ghana.

“Two-thirds of indoor air pollution has been linked to wood fuels for cooking and domestic use. And we know the health implications of this for our women and girls…And that is why the Ministry of Energy is distributing free Clean Cookstoves to rural communities across Ghana,” he said.

The extraction of these minerals will be carried out in an environmentally sustainable manner, with a focus on maximizing their utility through value-added processes. This strategic approach aims to position Ghana as a central hub for electric vehicles and battery technology production.

Mr. Krappa has announced the establishment of a National Energy Transition Implementation Committee, along with the creation of the National Energy Transition Coordinating Office within the Office of the President. These entities will be responsible for spearheading the execution of the framework.

He clarifies that both the National Energy Transition Framework and the Energy Transition Investment Plan will function as guiding documents for the transformation of Ghana into a climate-resilient, low-carbon energy nation. This transition aims to expedite development and enhance the welfare of our citizens.

He stated, “And on Energy Efficiency, we will continue to promote the use of best-in-class energy appliances, energy efficiency in SMEs, and the use of clean cookstoves. Our target is to ensure 50% LPG penetration by 2030, and our Cylinder Recirculation Model, with which everyone can exchange an empty cylinder with a filled new one, will ensure affordability and safety.”

He stated, “And on Energy Efficiency, we will continue to promote the use of best-in-class energy appliances, energy efficiency in SMEs, and the use of clean cookstoves. Our target is to ensure 50% LPG penetration by 2030, and our Cylinder Recirculation Model, with which everyone can exchange an empty cylinder with a filled new one, will ensure affordability and safety.”

Herbert Krappa emphasizes that the ministry will fast-track Oil and Gas Exploration and Production efforts to secure funding for the advancement of Clean Energy Technologies. Additionally, there will be ongoing efforts to advocate for and incentivize the use of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) as a means to reduce reliance on wood fuels.

“We believe in responsible exploration of our resources, and we believe in low-carbon oil and gas production. We will explore carbon capture technologies, low carbon auctions, and carbon offsetting while we produce our oil and gas reserves.”

He highlighted that the Ministry of Energy necessitates over $500 billion to realize the nation's Energy Transition Plan. This plan is slated for launch by the president during the sidelines of the UN General Assembly at COP 28 in November this year.

He committed to fostering stronger partnerships between the ministry and higher education institutions for collaborative research. He emphasized that without such collaboration, achieving net-zero carbon emissions would be as uncertain as today's unpredictable weather patterns.