Let’s add renewable energy to Ghana’s power generation mix -First Sky Group Boss

Members of the inspection delegation were briefed during their visit to the solar farm. Eric Seddy Kutortse, Executive Chairman of First Sky Group, a fully Ghanaian-owned company, urged local experts to lead the future energy landscape in Ghana, asserting that the nation has the capacity to manage both current and future energy projects to drive economic growth. He emphasized that harnessing local natural resources—sun, wind, and water—is crucial for ensuring the country’s energy independence.

Kutortse made this call during an inspection of the ongoing construction of a 50MW Solar PV power station in the Yendi District on September 30, 2024. The visit was conducted by a high-profile delegation from the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, led by Chair Hon. Owuraku Aidoo.

The delegation also included Deputy Chief of Staff Emmanuel Adumua-Bossman, Bui Power Authority (BPA) Board Chair Kwesi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, BPA CEO Kofi Dzamesi, and other dignitaries, including local government officials.

This visit aimed to provide a firsthand update on Ghana’s first and largest wholly indigenous solar project, launched a year ago by First Sky Limited, a member of First Sky Group, on behalf of BPA.

Kutortse reported that the Yendi Solar PV Project spans approximately 140 acres and is designed to produce 50 megawatts of renewable energy. He noted it is the first fully Ghanaian-owned renewable energy initiative and the second largest solar project in the country, following the 55MW project at Bui.

“This project represents a significant milestone, symbolizing Ghana’s commitment to renewable energy. It shows our readiness to innovate and create a sustainable energy system owned and operated by Ghanaians,” he stated.

He underscored the global shift toward renewable energy and insisted that Ghana must not fall behind. “With this project, we are taking a bold step toward that vision,” he added, emphasizing that all project experts are Ghanaian.

BPA CEO Samuel Kofi Dzamesi commended First Sky Group for being the first indigenous company to construct a solar plant in Ghana. “Previous solar plants were built by foreign companies; this marks a significant achievement for local industry,” he remarked.

Dzamesi explained that First Sky handled all engineering, procurement, and financing aspects of the project. Upon completion, Bui Power will generate and sell the electricity, repaying financing over eight years, with the solar panels having a 25-year warranty.

Hon. Owuraku Aidoo highlighted the project’s alignment with the government’s goal of achieving 10% renewable energy in the national mix, noting that his committee is closely monitoring its progress.

Deputy Chief of Staff Adumua-Bossman expressed satisfaction with the project’s advancements, particularly noting a maintenance plan for the solar panels to ensure sustained capacity throughout their lifespan.

Kwesi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, Board Chair of BPA, expressed pride in the project, stating, “It is impressive to see what First Sky has accomplished. This reinforces our belief in local capabilities, and if we trust ourselves, we can build a better future for Ghana.”

First Sky Limited, with BPA’s approval, plans to complete the project in two phases: 20MW by October 2024 and an additional 30MW by the end of 2024.

The project, which includes the engineering, procurement, and construction of a 50MW Solar PV Power Plant, will also establish a solar farm, a 5km access road, and staff accommodations. Once completed, it will bolster the government’s efforts to ensure energy security and support Ghana’s Energy Transition Agenda.

Earlier, the delegation visited Galgul Laana NAA Kassim Norgah, who facilitated a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty NAA Gbewah Yaa-Naa Abukari Mahama II, the King of the Dagbon Kingdom, to seek his blessings.