President Akufo-Addo has stated that the Solar plant at Kaleo is a significant step towards sustainable development in helping to secure a reliable source of electricity in the country.
He said this at the official launch of the 15MegaWatts phase two of the Kaleo Solar Power Plant in the Upper West Region.
Speaking at the event, the president revealed the government’s intentions to implement policies that prioritize the development of solar, wind and hydroelectric power projects as strategies for the growth of the energy sector.
He also pointed out that the vision is for Ghana to emerge as an eco-friendly country that will inspire other countries to follow the pursuit of greener energy technology.
“The commissioning of this solar plant is not just about providing electricity but represents also a fundamental shift towards sustainable development. Renewable energy sources such as solar power not only reduces our reliance on fossil fuel but also help mitigate the adverse effect of climate change,” he remarked.
President Akufo-Addo underscored the need for all “to support the sustainable operation of this facility and together each of us will play our small part to help build our beloved motherland for the benefit of ourselves and future generations.”
The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Irchard Razaarly noted the delight of the EU in supporting such projects and stressed that the European Union prioritizes investment that contributes to the nation’s growth.
To him, Ghana must invest in green energy technology to address its systemic challenges.
“These investments go beyond mere profit-seeking they aim to address systemic challenges and empower individuals and the communities and pave the way for a brighter future,” He added.
Meanwhile, Mr Kofi Tutu Agyare, Board Chairman of the Volta River Authority (VRA), says the people of Kaleo and Northern Ghana stand to benefit significantly from the plant.
He said with the plant up and running the Kaleo Community will be the first in Ghana to run solely on solar power adding that the solar power plant will contribute to the country’s efforts towards reducing the nation’s carbon emissions.
He added that the plant will enhance the skills of technical and engineering students in northern Ghana.
“The plant is also expected to act as an attraction for tourists to the Kaleo community. To the people of Akaleo, we pledge our continued support towards sustained development of your community,” he said.
“As board chairman, it gives me great joy to witness the confirmation of the authority’s commitment to increase our renewable energy footprint, particularly at this time as our country strives to achieve energy access, energy security, and energy efficiency.”
“Even though it is a bit of a challenge and it will require some significant technological, human capital, and financial resources, so we extend our hand of partnership to the global and local energy community.”
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Source: Flora Tang/ATLFMNEWS
