The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has announced a big step to install 23,500 solar-powered streetlights across the country as part of ways to reduce the burden on the national electricity grid to boost energy efficiency.
This announcement was made by the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Mr. John Jinapor, at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, saying that the operation will span across a stretch of 700 kilometers, with 23,500 all-in-one solar streetlights across the country.
“As part of our streetlighting project, I’m happy to announce that we’ve commenced the installation of all-in-one solar streetlights. We intend to do 23,500 Units covering a distance of 700km, so that gradually we can take solar as the main focus and move our streetlights away from the grid,” the Minister stated.
Ghana is recovering from a power shortfall of 720 megawatts, with most public streetlights connected to the national grid during peak evening hours. The solar streetlight programme is expected to provide relief and advance the government’s Green Transition Agenda.
“Streetlights alone consume between 200 and 300 megawatts during peak hours,” Mr Jinapor stated. “By moving these onto solar systems, we can reduce the national load and improve electricity availability for homes and businesses.”
The minister also announced that the government is installing rooftop solar systems at various government agencies, schools, and clinics to conserve energy, enhance public safety, and reduce carbon emissions, thereby promoting the adoption of renewable energy.
“This is not just about energy; it’s about fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and taking bold steps towards self-reliance,” Mr. Jinapor said.
This move by the government is an initiative that is part of a broader strategy to reduce Ghana’s reliance on fossil fuels and grid-based consumption, aiming to reposition the energy sector as a reliable pillar for economic growth, industrial development, and climate resilience.
