The Dean of the School of Energy at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) Sunyani, Prof. Samuel Gyamfi emphasized that the rapid adaptation of technologies will be a vital determinant in the speed of the country’s energy transition.
The rapid evolution of technology is reshaping the way renewable energy is produced, distributed and consumed. The ability of developing countries to adopt new technologies will determine the rate of acceleration of their transition.
Speaking ahead of the 13th Ghana Economic Forum (GEF) organized by B&FT, he stressed that the key to the National Energy Transition Framework is the reliable and efficient adoption of new technologies that can lead to the transition from traditional fossil fuels to renewables energy.
Professor Gyamfi, an expert in energy efficiency and renewables, further highlighted the central role that harnessing the power of innovation and adopting cutting edge technological solutions will play in accelerating the shift towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system.
“Globally, about 84 percent of energy comes from fossil fuels – and this results in high emissions that lead to climate change and the environmental issues we face today. So, we have to change. but the shift to renewable energy may not happen at the rate we expect because it requires a change in technology.
“For example, in terms of transportation, it is over 90 percent dependent on fossil fuels and oil. So if we want to switch to renewable energy, we need to change the vehicle technology system to be able to use biofuels and other forms of renewable energy such as e-vehicles,” he said.
The Ghana Economic Forum (GEF) is an annual event aimed at promoting dialogue among key stakeholders on critical economic issues facing Ghana.
The 13th edition is themed “Unlocking Opportunities: Reengineering Ghana’s Economic Model for Sustainable Development”.
The GEF provides a platform for policymakers, business leaders, economists and academics to share ideas, discuss policy directions and explore innovative solutions to promote Ghana’s economic growth and development.
This year’s forum is particularly important as it features keynote speeches and interviews with two presidential candidates reflecting the intersection of economic policy and the upcoming election.
As the world faces pressing challenges related to climate change and sustainability, the pace of the energy transition has become a critical focus for experts and decision makers.
Technology has emerged as a game changer in the energy transition journey – from innovations in renewable energy generation to developments in energy storage and grid optimization.
A key advantage of a technology-driven change is its reliability in ensuring a smooth and seamless transition. By leveraging data analytics, artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies, energy stakeholders can improve visibility, efficiency and transparency across the entire energy value chain.
From solar panels and wind turbines to smart meters and energy management systems, the spread of innovative technologies is creating new opportunities for both developed and developing countries to make significant strides towards decarbonisation and sustainability.
Embracing technology is not just an option. it is a necessity in today’s energy landscape. By investing in research and development, strengthening collaboration between industry and academia, and fostering policy support for technology development, we can accelerate the energy transition and unlock a greener future for generations to come, explained Cath. . Gyamfi.
The GEF Energy Plenary, featuring Professor Gyamfi, will explore the current state of Ghana’s energy sector, focusing on issues such as energy security, renewable energy adoption and regulatory frameworks.