The Member of Parliament for Manso Nkwanta, Tweneboa Kodua Fokuo, has questioned the propriety of the government’s decision to approve a second gas processing plant, arguing that Ghana should instead prioritize solar energy as a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative.
His comments come amid growing debate over whether Ghana’s energy strategy should focus on expanding gas infrastructure or accelerating the transition to renewables.
Cabinet has approved plans for the construction of a second gas processing plant to address the country’s energy shortfalls, according to Energy Minister, John Jinapor.
Speaking to journalists at the Jubilee House on Friday, March 7, Mr. Jinapor emphasized the urgent need for interventions to enhance energy security and ensure a stable power supply.
“Cabinet has approved that in partnership with the Finance Ministry we take immediate steps in constructing a second gas processing plant. This gas processing plant will augment the shortfall and increase supply security,” he stated.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV, following the announcement, the Manso Nkwanta lawmaker emphasized that while gas remains an important part of Ghana’s energy mix, a shift toward solar would reduce long-term costs and enhance energy security.
“We’re not talking about far-advanced countries—there are nations similar to Ghana where solar is powering homes efficiently,” Fokuo stated, adding “With rooftop solar, households generate their own electricity, reducing reliance on the national grid.”
He acknowledged that the initial investment in solar technology could be high but argued that the long-term savings make it a smarter choice.
“And as I said the initial cost to install solar system, if you look at the lifespan of these systems, you’ll break even so easily such a way that the rest will be benefits. These are the mechanisms that we should be looking at and this could be rolled out across the country. And this is not rocket science – it could be done easily.”
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