The Deputy Minister of Energy, Mr. Collins Adomako-Mensah, has stressed the potential challenges associated with the development of green hydrogen in Sub-Saharan Africa.
At a symposium titled “The Future of Green Hydrogen in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Role of Communication Technology and Higher Educational Institutions,” Deputy Energy Minister, Mr. Adomako-Mensah delivered a keynote address highlighting the vital role of green hydrogen in securing a sustainable energy future for the continent.
The symposium revealed the exciting potential of clean energy in Africa, highlighting the key factors that will drive its future growth and success.
“Green hydrogen, produced from renewable energy sources like solar power, presents a transformative opportunity,” he said.
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While acknowledging the economic challenges associated with green hydrogen production, Mr. Adomako-Mensah emphasized its vast potential for regions like Africa.
“The potential for producing green hydrogen in high-sunbelt regions, including Africa, is enormous, and the benefits are multiple. By so doing, it’ll help resolve power access issues, draw in investments, and make a substantial contribution to achieving emission reduction targets,” he said.
Mr. Adomako-Mensah stressed Ghana’s commitment to a strategic energy transition plan, allowing for a gradual and controlled pace.
He noted that Ghana has set a target to increase its renewable energy installed capacity by 10% within its national energy mix by 2030, in line with its commitments under the Paris Agreement.
The Deputy Minister touted the success of ongoing projects such as the 106 MW solar installation and the VRA Kaleo Phase II project, which has increased the total installed capacity by 13 MW, demonstrating the government’s commitment to renewable energy.
Other projects in the works include a 200 MW solar park from the Volta River Authority and a renewable energy program that will add 68 MW by 2025.
Adomako-Mensah pointed out the huge potential of green hydrogen, mentioning the massive $562 billion energy transition plan set to launch in 2027 at Sharm El Sheikh.
He emphasized the need for teamwork in research and development, especially in green hydrogen production, highlighting the vital role of educational institutions and research centres in driving progress.
The P-Plant Centre for Industrial Research and Innovation at the Ghana Communication Technology University (GCTU) received commendation for its innovative work in green hydrogen technologies, encompassing electrolysis, renewable energy integration, and hydrogen storage solutions.
In his concluding remarks, Adomako-Mensah extended his appreciation for the continued support from development partners, notably GIC of Germany, and emphasized the need for enhanced capacity development and investment collaborations to achieve a climate-resilient and sustainable future.
