As Ghana joins the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of Clean Energy, Member of Parliament for Juaben Constituency, Francis Kwabena Berepong Owusu-Akyaw, has highlighted the significance of clean energy and called for accelerated efforts towards its adoption to achieve sustainable development.
A statement posted on his Facebook page on January 22, 2025, Juaben legislature, Owusu-Akyaw described clean energy as “a powerful symbol of hope, progress, and a sustainable future,” emphasizing its potential to address global challenges such as climate change and energy insecurity. He underscored that clean energy is not just a technological advancement but a commitment to environmental preservation and human prosperity.
The Asante Juaben MP acknowledged Ghana’s reliance on fossil fuels over the decades, noting the associated costs, including rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and adverse impacts on public health.
He said the country’s pivot towards renewable energy is crucial to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and enhancing resilience to future environmental challenges.
“Clean energy adoption in Ghana is more than a necessity; it is an opportunity to transform the country’s energy landscape, reduce environmental impact, and improve livelihoods,” he said.
The MP also outlined the progress Ghana has made in renewable energy adoption. These include the installation of solar panels on rooftops of government and private institutions, the use of wind farms, and the adoption of energy-efficient appliances in some cities, all of which contribute to pollution reduction and improved quality of life.
Despite these advancements, Mr. Owusu-Akyaw acknowledged significant challenges such as the high initial costs of renewable energy infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, limited awareness of clean energy benefits, and the need for technological upgrades to integrate solar and wind energy into the national grid.
However, he described these challenges as opportunities to drive innovation, create jobs, and foster global cooperation. “The renewable energy sector is already employing millions worldwide, with the promise of even more opportunities as we scale up our efforts as a country,” he stated.
Lithium Discovery: A Catalyst for Change
Hon. Owusu-Akyaw also highlighted the recent discovery of lithium in commercial quantities as a significant opportunity for Ghana to advance clean energy adoption.
Lithium, a critical component in renewable energy technologies such as batteries for electric vehicles and solar power storage, offers a pathway for environmentally friendly energy solutions.
He urged the government to prioritize sustainability and equitable practices in harnessing the potential of lithium, ensuring that communities and ecosystems are not compromised in the process.
Owusu-Akyaw called for bold and decisive action from all stakeholders, including the government, businesses, and local communities. “The Government of Ghana must prioritize renewable energy policies, businesses must lead with innovation, and communities, both rural and urban, must embrace the change,” he said.
He further urged individuals to contribute through advocacy, education, and sustainable daily choices, emphasizing that achieving a clean energy future requires collective effort.
Imagining a future powered entirely by clean energy, the mining expert painted a picture of pollution-free cities, accessible energy for all, and harmony with nature. “This is not a distant dream; it is a future within our grasp, one we must collectively strive to achieve,” he affirmed.
Hon. Owusu-Akyaw celebrated the progress made so far while stressing the importance of continued commitment to clean energy. “Together, we can ensure that this vision becomes a reality, not just for us but for generations to come,” he said.
The International Day of Clean Energy serves as a reminder of the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources to combat climate change and build a sustainable future for Ghana and the world.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
