Ghana Introduces Largest Floating Solar PV System Amid Energy Crisis.
Ghana has launched West Africa’s largest floating solar photovoltaic (PV) system to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, a timely initiative as the country faces power outages due to disrupted gas supplies from Nigeria. The new 5-megawatt solar plant, located at the Bui generating unit in the Bono region, represents a significant step toward sustainable energy development.
Project Highlights and Benefits:
Sustainable Energy Source: The floating solar PV system utilizes photovoltaic modules to generate electricity, preserving land by using water surfaces instead. This approach minimizes deforestation and land use conflicts.
Aquatic Benefits: Engineers have highlighted that the solar panels create a conducive environment for fish breeding underneath them, supporting fingerling development and maintaining aquatic ecosystems.
Challenges and Environmental Concerns:
Displacement Issues: The construction of the solar plant has displaced around a thousand people from eight communities, raising social and humanitarian concerns.
Environmental Impact: The project has led to significant environmental changes, including flooding of nearly one-fifth of a nearby national park and fertile farmland. Local fishermen report adverse effects on their livelihoods due to the dam’s impact on downstream water conditions.
Ghana’s Renewable Energy Goals:
Despite the challenges, the Ghanaian government argues that the floating solar project will contribute positively to the environment by reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels. This initiative aligns with Ghana‘s broader goal of generating 10% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, supporting the West African Gold Coast’s transition to sustainable energy.
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Current Energy Crisis:
The launch of the floating solar PV system comes at a critical time, as recent announcements by the Electricity Company of Ghana and the Ghana Grid Company Limited indicated a three-week power outage caused by reduced gas supply from Nigeria. This disruption underscores the urgent need for alternative and reliable energy sources.
The floating solar plant at Bui not only demonstrates Ghana’s commitment to renewable energy but also highlights the complexities and trade-offs involved in large-scale infrastructure projects. As Ghana continues to navigate its energy transition, balancing ecological preservation, social impacts, and economic development remains a key challenge.
