By Opesika Tetteh Puplampu, GNA
Mafikope (E/R), Oct. 30, GNA – The Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN), through its Renewable Energy Working Group, has installed and commissioned a 6kWp + 10kWh off-grid rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system to power a community centre at Mafikope in the Kwahu Afram Plains North District of the Eastern Region.
The project aims to promote community design and own solar systems and ensure equitable access to clean energy for underserved communities.
Mafikope, a peninsula community of about 500 residents, is not connected to the national electricity grid, which has long affected residents’ productivity and limited access to education and livelihood opportunities.
The initiative followed a community profiling exercise conducted by AJTN in three island communities, including Mafikope, to assess their energy challenges. The findings revealed significant constraints ranging from the inability to use ICT facilities to difficulties in preserving fish and crop produce.
Mrs. Patricia Odeibea Bekoe, Co-Facilitator of AJTN’s Renewable Energy Working Group, said the initiative highlighted the importance of community-led solutions in advancing energy access and justice.
“The Mafikope community solar centre symbolises empowerment through clean energy and demonstrates how renewable power can drive social and economic transformation,” she said.
Mafikope was selected for the project based on its strong community readiness and commitment. The community provided the building for the solar installation, while AJTN funded and installed the solar system, creating what has been described as a “community solar centre.”
The PV system, designed by International Climate & Energy Consult (ICEC) and installed by Echoace Energy Solutions Limited, includes solar panels, hybrid inverters, and battery storage to ensure a continuous power supply with post-installation maintenance training for selected youth to ensure sustainability.
The system currently provides lighting and electrical outlets for six rooms, and the community have plans to convert some rooms into a computer lab and library for children, a cold storage facility, and an entertainment centre to improve social life and livelihoods.
Ms Marina Agortimevor, Coordinator of AJTN, said the project was part of the network’s effort to scale up community-based renewable energy initiatives across Africa’s off-grid communities.
“Through this project, we are showing what is possible. We remain committed to ensuring Africa’s transition to clean energy is fair, inclusive, and locally driven,” she said.
The community’s leaders expressed gratitude to AJTN, noting that having electricity would bring positive change and development to Mafikope.
The commissioning was marked by music, dance, and celebration as community members expressed optimism that the solar project would enhance education, health delivery, and overall living standards.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Sawer/Linda Asante Agyei