In a bold move to redefine energy generation in West Africa, Ghana is now harnessing the power of its rivers literally. The nation has unveiled the region’s largest floating solar power plant, marking a pivotal shift in its journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

The 5-megawatt floating solar installation, located on the Black Volta River and engineered entirely by Ghanaian experts from the Bui Power Authority (BPA), represents an innovative fusion of technology and sustainability. Unlike traditional solar farms, this project floats on water, conserving land and reducing water evaporation while generating clean electricity.

The project is not just a feat of engineering it is a clear signal of Ghana’s growing ambition. Currently producing only 1% of its energy from renewable sources, the country is determined to raise that figure to 10% by 2030 as part of its National Energy Plan. The floating plant is already operational and generating power, according to Peter Acheampong, Deputy Director of Renewable Energy at the BPA.

“This is just the beginning,” Acheampong noted. “We have completed the 5-megawatt project, and it is already generating power. There are plans to scale it up to approximately 65 megawatts. At BPA, our expansion efforts are guided by the country's renewable energy master plan.”

The floating solar plant complements BPA’s existing 50-megawatt solar farm commissioned in 2020, with the two projects collectively costing $48 million. These investments are contributing significantly to diversifying Ghana’s energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

Beyond BPA’s initiatives, Ghana is witnessing a surge in solar development. The Kaleo (13 MW), Lawra (6.5 MW), and Navrongo (2.5 MW) solar plants, valued at €50.8 million, are already feeding power into the national grid. Meanwhile, the private sector is also stepping up. Helios Solar Energy recently launched Africa’s largest rooftop solar PV plant a 16.82-megawatt system backed by a $17 million investment from the International Finance Corporation.

Looking ahead, BPA has earmarked six new sites Bawku, Yendi, Tumu, Sawla, Buipe, and Zebilla for future solar projects, mostly concentrated in the northern regions where solar potential is highest.

Energy and Green Transition Minister John Jinapor emphasized that Ghana’s energy future lies in renewables. “We will establish the Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund. This fund will support research and development of home-grown green technologies, provide solar-powered solutions for various sectors, and ease the financial burden of electricity tariffs on state institutions." He said. 

Jinapor stressed that the transition to clean energy is not only about environmental responsibility it’s also a strategic economic decision. With abundant sunlight, a long coastline for wind energy, and numerous rivers for mini-hydro development, Ghana is well-positioned to lead Africa’s renewable revolution.

As the floating solar panels shimmer across the waters of the Black Volta, they reflect more than sunlight they mirror Ghana’s bold vision for a cleaner, greener, and more energy-secure future.