UNDP, Energy Commission Hold Forum On Electric Cars

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration of Energy Commission (EC) of Ghana in a joint forum to discuss the growing potential of Electronic Vehicle (EV) technology in transforming Ghana’s automotive industry and reducing its environmental impact.

This forum is a platform expected to encourage the use of low-emission vehicles, driving Ghana towards a cleaner, more sustainable future with low emissions.

Mr. Sukhrob Khoshmukhamadov, Deputy Resident Representative at UNDP, emphasized the platform’s value in educating the public “This platform is an important tool used in comparing with everyday use of ICE vehicles. If we change from ICE vehicles to EVs or ZEVs, what would be the differences? If this platform is widely used in globally, initially it will raise awareness among the general public. People will realize that loving the planet doesn’t require spending a lot of money. They can compare with the use of low-emission vehicles at present. This is because everyone is similarly affected by the impacts of global warming”.

He noted that EV infrastructure, particularly charging stations, must be integrated into the government’s incentive policies to encourage private sector investments.

While acknowledging the importance of EV infrastructure, Mr. Khoshmukhamadov raised concerns about Ghana’s reliance on foreign experts for basic EV maintenance due to a skills gap.

Despite this, he expressed optimism that, the workshop would help foster collaboration among stakeholders to address these challenges and unlock the full potential of the EV sector.

He made known of the fact that subsequent discussions could drive investments that would reduce Ghana’s dependence on fossil fuels, while also creating green jobs for the future.

Dr. Godwin Kafui Ayetor, a Consultant for the Energy Commission, highlighted the challenges Ghana was facing with its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.

Ayetor also highlighted the country establishment of 100 per cent solar powered EV charging stations in
seven charging stations in the country, all located in Accra, whilst other regions, have none, which is hindering the widespread adoption of EVs achieving a comprehensive and sustainable adoption of the electric vehicle technology in Ghana despite support of the United Nations Development Program UNDP).

Led by the research on operations analysts, Ayetor added that , the UNDP and the energy commission team must be willing to key into the many projects the Council has initiated to deepen electric vehicle growth and development.

Ayetor lauded the achievements recorded by the energy commission through its many projects and programmes, suggesting that partnership with the UNDP in the area of training programmes will further empower Ghanaian youths.

To address this, he called for the government to provide incentives for the private sector to set up more renewable energy-powered charging stations, reducing dependency on the national grid.

Dr. Ayetor noted the skills gap in the country, particularly in the installation and maintenance of EV charging stations.

“We must however, do a lot to unlock that local potential and put a stop to the importation of new and fairly used vehicles into Ghana”, he added.

“As am speaking, there are individuals and companies that are believed in the current and future economy of Ghana, enough to invest this huge amount of money,” he explained.

He urged the Energy Commission to organize capacity-building programmes to equip local electricians with the necessary skills to support the growing EV infrastructure.

By: Frank owusu obimpeh