The Board Chairman of the Energy Commission, Prof. John Gartchie Gatsi, has urged licensed solar companies that are in default to immediately begin their licensing renewal processes within the stipulated 60 days or face severe sanctions.
He revealed that numerous institutions in the solar energy sector are violating the Commission’s regulations on biomass cookstoves (L.I. 2454) and solar panel standards (L.I. 2449), which govern their operations.
Prof. Gatsi shared these insights during an interview with Energy News Africa on the sidelines of the 24th Electric Wiring Certification and Awards Ceremony in Accra.
He explained that institutions and organizations in this sector currently owe the Commission over GH¢28 million, severely affecting its operational efficiency.
“The Commission, mandated to enforce national standards, relies on these funds to acquire testing and monitoring equipment, train staff to remain current and effective, and deliver benefits to the nation,” Prof. Gatsi lamented.
Addressing the lack of punitive enforcement to date, he emphasized that Ghana’s renewable energy laws were originally crafted to attract investors. His team is now seeking parliamentary approval to strengthen the sanctions regime.
While some solar companies have complied following Commission visits, Prof. Gatsi stressed the urgency of expediting expired license renewals to uphold national laws.
On the investment outlook, he noted a surge of organizations establishing renewable energy sites to support Ghana’s energy goals, including nuclear power technology.
Ghana aims to increase renewable energy’s share in the national generation mix to 10% by 2030 (excluding large hydro), according to the Ghana Renewable Energy Master Plan.
Priorities include solar and wind expansion, off-grid electrification for 1,000 communities, and reducing reliance on biomass.
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