Ghana has launched the first phase of its 1,000-megawatt rooftop solar project, designed to power companies within the free zone enclave.
Upon completion, this solar project will become Africa’s largest and the second largest globally. It is expected to generate 24,750 MWh of clean, stable, and sustainable electricity annually, enhancing companies’ access to the European market (EU).
Financed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the IMF Group, the project spans 100,000 square meters and was constructed, connected, and installed by Ghanaian engineers and technicians.
During the commissioning, Herbert Krapa, Minister of State at the Energy Ministry, reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable energy initiatives.
“Government acknowledges that the private sector has the power to contribute to growth and development. We plan to mainstream renewable energy as part of our energy generation mix, and this project signals the lead role of the private sector in achieving it,” he stated.
He further called for more partnerships to ensure a greener economy.
“Solar, over time, has helped reduce the cost in the energy mix and meet green credentials. I encourage more partnerships to sustain such initiatives,” he added.
At the commissioning, Adlai Opoku-Boamah, Managing Director of LMI Holdings, hailed the project as a major milestone in the company’s pursuit of energy independence and commitment to environmental stewardship.
Owned by Helios Solar Company (Helios), a subsidiary of LMI Holdings, the solar rooftop project will provide 16.82 megawatts of energy to Helios and its partners.
Amb. Mike Ocquaye Jnr., Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, emphasized the critical role of the free zones in Ghana’s growth strategy.
“This project reaffirms the need to foster a thriving ecosystem of free zone enterprises here in Ghana,” he said.
The innovative solar system is financed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) as part of a broader $30 million clean power and water agreement with LMI Holdings. This initiative aims to support job creation and promote greener, more sustainable, and competitive industrial development in Ghana.
According to the Ghana Energy and Investment Plan, the country is expected to play a pivotal role in the energy generation mix. The plan projects that solar could comprise the majority of the energy capacity, potentially exceeding 150 gigawatts by 2060. However, realizing this vision will require substantial technical, financial, and policy support to streamline and accelerate project development.
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