The GIMPA–PURC Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation participated in the Africa Energy Efficiency Policy Training Week, organized by the International Energy Agency (IEA) at the Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra. The event, held in collaboration with the Ghana Energy Commission and the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, brought together participants from energy-related organizations across Africa. This flagship event of IEA was organized to equip policymakers with the knowledge and skills needed to develop and implement effective energy efficiency initiatives.

The training was delivered through five specialised streams: Appliances and Indicators, Buildings, Transport, Industry, and Indicators and Evaluation. These thematic areas provided participants with in-depth technical knowledge, policy frameworks, and practical tools for advancing energy efficiency initiatives within their respective countries.

The participation of the GIMPA–PURC Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation reflects its ongoing commitment to advancing research, training and policy support in the energy sector. The event presented an opportunity for participants from CEPUR to learn best practices from broader perspectives, engage more stakeholders and find pathways to scale research and capacity building in energy efficiency.

In his welcome and opening remarks, the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor emphasized that energy efficiency is a key of the country’s effort to deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy.

Participants described the program as a valuable platform for broadening their understanding, engaging with diverse stakeholders, and identifying pathways to scale research and capacity building in energy efficiency across Africa. The interactive sessions and collaborative exercises fostered dialogue on best practices and innovative solutions for reducing energy consumption.

Dr. Ishmael Ackah, a Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, in his closing remarks, commended the IEA and partners for organizing a timely and impactful training program. He urged participants to apply the knowledge and skills gained to drive energy efficiency initiatives in organizations and countries.

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The Centre is delighted to announce the successful completion of the Executive Certificate Training in Energy Economics, Regulation & Policy (EERP), held in September 2025.

The two-week program equipped participants with practical knowledge and analytical skills to navigate the complex dynamics of energy markets, regulation and policy. Delivered by distinguished experts from academia, industry and regulatory institutions, the training provided a unique blend of theory, case studies and field experience.

Key Modules Covered:

• Energy Economics & Markets: Principles of demand and supply, production costs, market structures and risk management.
• Electricity Systems & Regulation: Generation, grid integration, storage technologies, market design, oil and gas pricing and electricity trading.
• Energy Transition & Sustainability: Strategies for environmental sustainability, Ghana’s energy transition and renewable integration.
• Regulation & Tariffs: Regulatory economics, technical standards, tariff setting, practical modelling and case studies on pricing.
• Efficiency & Policy Reform: Energy demand management, efficiency measures, stakeholder negotiations and assessment of Ghana’s energy policy.
• Industry Engagement: Participants visited the Energy Commission of Ghana to gain insights into regulatory practice and policy implementation.

Training Impact:

This training was more than a classroom exercise. It was about building capacity, fostering collaboration, and preparing professionals to take bold steps in shaping the future of energy in Ghana and across West Africa.

We celebrate our participants, especially those from Bui Power Authority (BPA) and the Volta River Authority (VRA), as well as other partner institutions, for their enthusiasm and commitment. Our heartfelt thanks also go to the facilitators and partners who shared their time, knowledge and passion.

At CEPUR, we believe that investing in people is the surest way to build resilient, sustainable energy systems. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of changemakers in our subsequent programmes.

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The Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation is pleased to announce the successful completion of this year’s training program on “Concepts, Issues, and Architecture of Regional Electricity Markets (REMS) – The Case of the ECOWAS Regional Electricity Market.”

This intensive program brought together industry players, professionals, regulators, and stakeholders from across the energy sector to share and deepen their understanding of the dynamics shaping regional electricity markets in the ECOWAS sub-region.

Training Highlights:

• In-depth Learning: Participants explored the core concepts, regulatory issues, and market design principles driving regional electricity markets.
• Market Architecture: Practical sessions examined the structure and functioning of the ECOWAS Regional Electricity Market, with case studies and lessons drawn from real-world experiences.
• Collaborative Exchange: The program created a platform for dialogue, enabling knowledge-sharing and peer learning among energy sector actors from across the region.
• Expert Facilitation: Delivered by seasoned industry experts, the training provided rich insights into global and regional best practices.
• Industry Exposure: As part of the program, participants visited the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) to gain firsthand insights into the role of capital markets in the energy sector, including how listed energy firms operate and contribute to market development.

Impact and Objectives Achieved:

• Equipped participants with enhanced capacity to engage with and contribute to the evolving ECOWAS Regional Electricity Market.
• Strengthened regional collaboration and understanding among regulators, operators, and policymakers.
• Promoted the adoption of sound regulatory and operational practices for greater efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of regional electricity markets.
• Connected participants to practical industry perspectives through the GSE experience.

We commend all participants for their dedication and commitment, and extend our appreciation to the facilitators and partners who made this year’s program a success.

The Centre of Excellence remains committed to advancing capacity building and knowledge in public utility regulation and will continue to provide platforms that shape the future of energy and utility services in the region.

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SUSTAINABLE ENERGY POLICY DIALOGUE, 2025

Introduction

Ghana is committed to achieving its Net-Zero emissions target by 2070, as the national Energy Transition Policy document outlines. This commitment was reiterated at the Energy Transition Dialogue 2025, held on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, in Accra. The event, themed ‘Accelerating Energy Transition’, was organized by the GIMPA-PURC Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation (CEPUR). The dialogue brought together key stakeholders from the energy sector to discuss policies, investments, financial strategies, and technological approaches necessary for a successful energy transition.

Background

Currently, Ghana’s energy generation mix comprises 69 percent fossil fuels, with the remaining portion coming from renewable sources. To accelerate the transition towards Net-Zero Emissions, the Ministry of Energy has integrated the Green Transition into its mandate. The country’s Renewable Energy Act, passed in 2011, laid the foundation for renewable energy initiatives, and further steps have been taken, including the launch of an energy transition and investment plan in 2023. Ghana’s comprehensive natural energy transition framework, unveiled at the COP27 Climate Conference in Egypt in 2022, aims to achieve Net-Zero Emissions by 2070.

Additionally, Ghana’s Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, highlighted the alarming state of energy access in rural Africa. He revealed that 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to electricity, while a billion more are without clean cooking facilities. This energy deficit has severe socio-economic implications, affecting education, healthcare, and economic growth in rural communities.

Methodology

The dialogue featured a panel discussion with key industry players, policymakers, and regulatory bodies. The session was moderated by Prof. Phillip Kofi Adom, a Research Fellow at CEPUR. Presentations and discussions were centered on the progress of Ghana’s energy transition, key policies, investment opportunities, and the role of stakeholders in ensuring sustainable energy practices. Participants included representatives from the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo), the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, civil society groups from the energy value chain, and the media.

Discussions

1. Commitment to Net-Zero by 2070

Mr. Seth Mahu, Director in charge of Renewable Energy at the ministry of energy, reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2070. He emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach involving policy, financial, investment, and technological strategies to reduce environmental impact.

1. Role of the Energy Commission

Madam Eunice A. Biritwum, Acting Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, highlighted the commission’s efforts to fast-track Net-Zero goals. She announced a collaboration with the African Development Bank to procure 12,000 standardized net meters, with 3,600 already approved for implementation.

1. Call for Stakeholder Collaboration

A seasoned energy consultant, Michael Opam, who chaired the session, stressed the importance of collective efforts among stakeholders in the energy value chain to drive Ghana’s energy transition.

1. Existing and Future Initiatives

Ghana has been gradually implementing renewable energy initiatives since 2011. The government launched an energy transition and investment plan in 2023, further outlining the steps towards achieving the Net-Zero objective by 2060. The 2022 natural energy transition framework provided a strategic roadmap for sustainable energy development.

1. Five-Point Agenda for Energy Transition

Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, introduced a comprehensive 5-point agenda to accelerate Ghana’s energy transition:

• Increasing Access to Electricity: Expanding grid extension and promoting off-grid renewable energy solutions to reach remote and underserved communities.
• Promoting Renewable Energy: Scaling up the development and deployment of solar, wind, and hydroelectric power to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
• Improving Energy Efficiency: Implementing measures to reduce energy waste and promote energy-efficient practices in industries, homes, and institutions.
• Enhancing Energy Storage and Grid Resilience: Investing in energy storage technologies and grid modernization to ensure reliable and efficient energy supply.
• Fostering International Cooperation and Investment: Collaborating with global partners and investors to leverage financing, technology, and expertise to support Ghana’s energy transition.

The Minister expressed optimism that the successful implementation of this agenda would significantly benefit rural Ghana and the broader African region by ensuring sustainable energy access and fostering socio-economic growth.

Conclusion

The Energy Transition Dialogue 2025 highlighted Ghana’s commitment to sustainable energy practices and achieving Net-Zero Emissions by 2070. The discussions underscored the importance of policy reforms, investment, technological advancements, and stakeholder collaboration in accelerating the transition. The introduction of the Ministry’s 5-point agenda provides a structured approach to improving energy access, promoting renewables, and enhancing grid resilience. CEPUR remains committed to championing research and regulatory advancements in the energy sector to support Ghana’s energy transition agenda.

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Ongoing Training on Regional Electricity Markets by the Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation

We are excited to announce that the Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation is currently hosting a comprehensive training program on “Concepts, Issues, and Architecture of Regional Electricity Markets (REMS) – The Case of ECOWAS Regional Electricity Market.” This training, aimed at professionals and stakeholders in the energy sector, delves into the intricacies of electricity markets within the ECOWAS region.

Training Highlights:

• Concepts and Fundamentals: Participants are gaining a deep understanding of the core principles that underpin regional electricity markets.
• Key Issues: The training addresses critical issues, including regulatory frameworks, market design, and the challenges of cross-border electricity trade.
• Market Architecture: In-depth discussions on the structure and functioning of the ECOWAS Regional Electricity Market, highlighting best practices and case studies.
• Expert Insights: Led by industry experts and thought leaders, the program provides valuable insights into the development and operation of regional electricity markets.

Objectives:

• Equip participants with the knowledge to navigate and contribute to the evolving landscape of regional electricity markets.
• Foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among professionals from different countries within the ECOWAS region.
• Promote the adoption of effective regulatory and operational practices to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of regional electricity markets.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from this training as we continue to explore the future of regional electricity markets in the ECOWAS region

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The African School of Regulation (ASR) held its inaugural in-person training on Power Sector Regulation in Africa from June 24-28, 2024, at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), a key implementing partner of ASR. The event opened with addresses from Augustina Akonnor, Deputy Rector of GIMPA, Frederick Nyang, Director of ASR, and Jose Ignacio Perez Arriaga, the Course Director. This followed a rigorous 10-week online training program on the same topic.

The training attracted participants from regulatory bodies, electric utilities, and consulting firms across Africa, including Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Eswatini, Cameroon, Zimbabwe, and Germany. Participants from Ghana included representatives from the GIMPA-PURC Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation (CEPUR) and the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC).

Utilizing case studies, the program provided in-depth insights into power regulation, addressing generation, transmission, distribution, tariffs, market electrification, and investment challenges. Participants engaged in group work, case study analysis, and networking activities, including a networking dinner, fostering collaboration and solution-finding for regulatory challenges.

The training concluded with a certificate ceremony recognizing all participants, with special accolades for the top-performing students, presented by Prof. Samuel Adams, coordinator of CEPUR and Director of the African Centre for Capacity Building.

The program featured contributions from Jose Ignacio Perez Arriaga, Dr. Frederick Nyang, and instructors Santos Diaz-Pastor, Joel Nana, Mohamed El-Abbas, and Eunice Potani. During the closing ceremony, implementing partners from GIMPA, the University of Cape Town, and Strathmore Makerere University shared updates on their latest research and innovations in energy regulation.

Prof. Samuel Adams highlighted CEPUR’s role in capacity building, policy briefs, dialogues, and research. He noted recent publications and studies by CEPUR on automatic tariff adjustment and lifeline electricity tariffs. Additionally, CEPUR will offer training on Financial Modeling Tariff Formulation and Implementation, Power Purchase Agreements, and regional electricity markets from July to September 2024.

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Introduction

World Water Day is an important event for the entire water stakeholders, for those working in the field, and for those whose lives are affected by the state of the world’s water resources. This is a large proportion of the world’s population, and a day dedicated to water concerns and issues is an excellent opportunity to engage the world’s attention on these issues.

In commemoration of the 2024 World Water Day, the Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulations (CEPUR) organized a policy dialogue under the theme “Leveraging Water for Peace.” The dialogue aimed at exploring the critical role of water in promoting peace and stability. It was also to identify strategies for leveraging water resources to foster cooperation and mitigate conflicts.

The programme brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society to discuss the critical role of water in fostering peace and sustainable development. Among the distinguished attendees were representatives from the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, Ghana Water Company Limited, Water Resources Commission, Community Water and Sanitation Agency, Gold Fields, SNV, Accra School of Hygiene, Political Parties, and the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Centre.

Background

Water scarcity, pollution, and inequitable access to water resources pose significant challenges to global peace and security. As competition for water resources intensifies, conflicts over water rights and access are increasingly prevalent. However, water also presents an opportunity for cooperation and collaboration among nations, communities, and stakeholders, fostering peace and sustainable development. Recognizing the importance of addressing water-related challenges, World Water Day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and promote dialogue on sustainable water management practices.

Objectives

1. To raise awareness about the interconnectedness of water, peace, and security.
2. To facilitate discussions on the potential of water as a catalyst for cooperation and peacebuilding.
3. To identify challenges and opportunities in leveraging water resources for peace.
4. To explore the role of mining activities in water-related conflicts and the regulatory framework needed.
5. To identify strategies for harnessing water resources for rural peacebuilding and development.
6. To develop actionable policy recommendations to promote water diplomacy and conflict resolution.

Methodology

Presentations by experts, panel discussions, and interaction among participants made up the policy dialogue. The presentations were made by the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources, Ghana Water Company Limited and Gold Fields Ghana, bringing to light water-related issues in the country which paved the way for the panel discussion on the thematic areas. The panellists for the discussion were selected based on their expertise in water management, peacebuilding and diplomacy.

Mr. Minta Aboagye, the Board Chair of the Water Resources Commission, served as the programme’s Chairman. The panellists included Ing. Dr. Clifford Braimah (Managing Director, Ghana Water Company Ltd), Dr. Bob Alfa (Acting Executive Director, Water Resources Commission), Ing. Kwabena Asare Gyasi-Duku (Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources), Mr. Emmanuel Morrison (Head, Corporate Affairs, Gold Fields Ghana), and Madam Theresa Swanzy Baffoe (Project Manager, SNV). The discussions focused on various dimensions of leveraging water for peace, including transboundary water governance, water diplomacy, and community-based water management approaches.

Key Themes and Discussions:

Transboundary Water Governance and Water Diplomacy

Participants discussed the importance of cooperative frameworks for managing shared water resources across borders. Examples of successful transboundary water agreements were highlighted, emphasizing the need for inclusive and participatory approaches to water governance. The role of water diplomacy in preventing conflicts and promoting cooperation was also explored. Participants discussed the significance of dialogue, negotiation, and mediation in resolving water-related disputes and fostering trust among riparian states.

Community-Based Water Management

Community-led approaches to water management were showcased as effective means of promoting peace and resilience at the local level. Examples of community-driven initiatives for water conservation, equitable access, and conflict resolution were shared, emphasizing the importance of empowering local stakeholders.

Climate Change and Water Security

The impact of climate change on water resources and its implications for peace and security were discussed. Participants emphasized the need for adaptive strategies and resilience-building measures to address water-related challenges in the face of climate variability and change.

Equitable Access to Water Resources

The dialogue highlighted the importance of ensuring equitable access to water resources for all citizens. Participants discussed the need for inclusive policies and infrastructure development to address disparities in water access, particularly in marginalized communities.

Mining and Water-Related Conflicts

The dialogue addressed the relationship between mining activities and water-related conflicts. Participants examined the role of the Water Resources Commission in regulating mining practices to minimize environmental degradation and prevent conflicts over water resources.

Integrated Water Resource Management

Participants discussed the concept of integrated water resource management (IWRM) as a holistic approach to water governance. They emphasized the need for coordinated efforts among government agencies, stakeholders, and communities to achieve sustainable water management goals.

Community-Based Approaches to Water Governance

The dialogue highlighted the importance of involving local communities in water governance and peacebuilding efforts. Participants shared examples of successful community-based initiatives aimed at improving water access, promoting conflict resolution, and building resilience.

Harnessing Water Resources for Peacebuilding and Development

Discussions focused on harnessing water resources to promote rural peacebuilding and development. Participants explored strategies for enhancing agricultural productivity, supporting livelihoods, and improving access to basic services in rural areas.

Policy Implications

The dialogue generated several policy implications for addressing water-related challenges in Ghana. These included the need for inclusive water governance frameworks, stronger regulations for sustainable resource management, and increased investment in infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives.

Challenges and Opportunities

Participants identified challenges such as competition over water resources, regulatory gaps and enforcement in mining activities, the impact of climate change on water availability, political tensions, competing interests, and resource scarcity as barriers to effective water cooperation and peacebuilding. However, they also recognized opportunities for leveraging water resources as a tool for conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and sustainable development.

Recommendations

1. Develop inclusive policies to ensure equitable access to water resources.
2. Implement adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on water resources.
3. Enhance regulatory frameworks to address mining-related conflicts.
4. Promote integrated water resource management approaches.
5. Support community-based water management initiatives and empower local communities to participate in decision-making processes.
6. Invest in rural water infrastructure to promote peacebuilding and development.
7. Those who violate established regulations should be subject to sanctions without sight.

Conclusion

The policy dialogue provided valuable insights and recommendations for leveraging water for peace and development. By implementing the recommendations and fostering stakeholder collaboration, Ghana can achieve sustainable water management and contribute to regional peace and stability.

It is the hope of the Centre of Excellence in Public Utility Regulation that, by the next celebration of World Water Day in 2025, most of the recommendations, if not all, should be implemented.

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The First Policy Dialogue

World Sustainable Energy Days

Introduction

The CEPUR First Policy Dialogue on Energy Transition was convened in celebration of World Sustainable Energy Day under the theme: “Energy transition now: fast, smart and resilient!”.  The dialogue aimed at exploring the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to sustainable energy systems in Ghana and the sub-region.

Held on Tuesday, March 05, 2024, at the GIMPA Executive Conference Centre, the dialogue brought together key stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society to discuss challenges, opportunities, and policy recommendations to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy systems.

Background

The world is facing unprecedented challenges related to energy consumption, environmental degradation, and climate change. A major shift in the energy landscape is occurring as a result of the pressing need to slow down global warming and lessen dependency on fossil fuels. As the energy demand continues to rise, there is a growing recognition of the need to transition towards sustainable energy sources to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure a secure and affordable energy future.

The World Sustainable Energy Day serves as a platform to raise awareness and promote action on sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving climate goals.

Objectives

The objectives of the Policy Dialogue were to:

1. Engage a broad range of stakeholders in the sector to Identify key challenges and barriers to energy transition in Ghana.
2. Build consensus among practitioners, policymakers, researchers, investors and the wider community on best practices and innovative approaches in promoting renewable energy.
3. Discuss policy frameworks and incentives to accelerate the adoption of sustainable energy technologies in Ghana.
4. Develop practical policy recommendations to help drive collective action towards a sustainable energy future in Ghana and the West Africa sub-region.

Methodology

The dialogue took the form of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, which allowed participants to exchange ideas and experiences on a range of topics related to energy transition in Ghana. Participants were selected based on their expertise and contributions to the field of sustainable energy. The dialogue focused on different aspects of energy transition, including renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency, policy frameworks, and financing mechanisms.

Key Themes and Discussions:

Renewable Energy Technologies

Participants discussed the progress made in the adoption of renewable energy technologies in Ghana and highlighted the need for further investments in renewable energy infrastructure. Discussions also focused on the scalability and affordability of these technologies, as well as the need for investment in research and development.

Policy and Regulation

Participants discussed the role of policy and regulation in driving the transition to sustainable energy systems. Key topics included the importance of setting ambitious renewable energy targets, implementing supportive regulatory frameworks, and providing incentives for renewable energy deployment. Participants also exchanged views on the role of policy frameworks in facilitating energy transition, including the need for supportive policies, regulations, and incentives to incentivize renewable energy deployment.

Energy Access and Equity

The dialogue also addressed the issue of energy access and equity, particularly in the rural areas. Panellists emphasized the need for all-inclusive energy policies that prioritize access to clean and affordable energy for all, while also addressing social and economic inequalities.

Private Sector Engagement

Representatives from the private sector shared their experiences in investing in renewable energy projects and integrating sustainability into their business operations. Discussions underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in scaling up renewable energy deployment and driving innovation.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the progress made in advancing renewable energy, participants acknowledged several challenges, including but not limited to the following:

Technological Barriers

Participants identified technological barriers, such as the intermittency of renewable energy sources and storage limitations, as key challenges that need to be addressed to accelerate energy transition.

Policy Uncertainty

The lack of long-term policy certainty and political will was highlighted as a major impediment to scaling up renewable energy deployment and attracting investment in sustainable energy projects.

Funding Constraints

Access to finance was identified as a significant barrier for a country like Ghana seeking to transition to sustainable energy systems, underscoring the need for international cooperation and financial support mechanisms.

However, participants also identified numerous opportunities, such as the declining costs of renewable energy technologies, growing public awareness of climate change, and the potential for job creation in the clean energy sector.

Recommendations

Based on the discussions and outcomes of the dialogue, the following recommendations were proposed:

1. Strengthen policy frameworks and regulatory mechanisms to support renewable energy deployment.
2. Increase investments in research and development to overcome technological barriers and drive innovation in renewable energy technologies.
3. Prioritize energy access and equity in policy-making processes, particularly in underprivileged communities.
4. Foster collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy systems.
5. Strengthen international cooperation and collaboration to mobilize finance and support capacity-building efforts in the energy sector.
6. Promote public awareness and engagement to foster a culture of energy conservation and sustainability.

Conclusion

The First CEPUR Policy Dialogue provided a valuable platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and identify opportunities for accelerating energy transition and achieving sustainable energy goals in Ghana. Moving forward, it is imperative to translate the discussions and recommendations into concrete actions to address the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the transition to sustainable energy systems.

Moving forward, it is essential to translate the discussions and recommendations from the dialogue into concrete actions. These include implementing supportive policies, mobilizing investments, and fostering partnerships to drive meaningful progress towards a sustainable energy future. The centre hopes that by the next World Sustainable Energy Day in 2025, many of these issues identified will be addressed and implemented. By working together, we can build a cleaner, more resilient energy system that benefits both people and the planet.

 

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