In the dynamic landscape of global efforts to curtail greenhouse gas emissions, the spotlight has prominently shifted towards the electrification of transportation.

Advanced nations are pioneering ambitious timelines to phase out Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles, steering the trajectory towards a more sustainable future.

Concurrently, groundbreaking research and development endeavours are actively dismantling barriers to widespread electric vehicle (EV) adoption, offering invaluable insights that reverberate across borders.

On the national front, Ghana has emerged as a proactive participant in the global pursuit of emission reduction and enhanced air quality. Within the framework of its National Determined Contributions (NDCs), the West African nation has identified the transport sector as a pivotal arena for adaptive measures.

Anchoring this commitment is the Drive Electric Initiative, a collaborative effort between Ghana's Energy Commission and Ministry of Energy. This initiative, designed to usher in and promote electric vehicles, aspires to achieve a specified number of EVs and charging outlets by the year 2020.

Presently, Ghana stands at the crossroads of burgeoning potential, boasting an approximate fleet of 17,660 Plug-in Electric Vehicles (PEVs). Primarily composed of two- and three-wheelers, this nascent electric vehicle landscape is accompanied by a burgeoning but limited charging infrastructure. Notably, the recent discovery of lithium deposits within the nation's borders adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. This newfound resource opens avenues for local battery production, potentially mitigating EV costs and infusing fresh momentum into Ghana's drive towards sustainable transportation.

As part of efforts to combat climate change, the government launched Ghana’s Electric Vehicle (EV) policy at the COP28 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The policy, unveiled by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, detailed strategies Ghana was adopting to encourage the importation and utilization of Electric Vehicles in the country.

The president highlighted the government’s determination to contribute to the fight against Climate Change. “Ghana’s emissions were expected to rise from 28 million tons of CO2 equivalent in 2021 to around 140 million tons in 2050, with the transport sector accounting for the largest increase. This would have been driven mainly by population growth, increased GDP per capita, and vehicle ownership. I was confident we could reverse this trend if significant actions were taken to transition, with cleaner electric vehicles promising to be game-changing in this process,” he had said.

The Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, provided insight into the policy's implementation. He highlighted the establishment of a unit within the ministry to coordinate implementation and collaborate with other sectors and institutions to address cross-cutting issues. One crucial area of focus was the development of manpower, particularly for artisans and garages experienced in servicing Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles. The minister emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership to ensure a smooth transition.

Minister for Energy, Mathew Opoku Prempeh, reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to the success of the policy. He emphasized that Ghana was ready for the electric vehicle and e-mobility evolution, given its electricity access rate of 88.85%. This level of access made the diffusion of electric vehicles on a national scale feasible, ensuring that every region and district could participate in this emerging industry.

Review of the EV Policy

In response to the pressing challenges posed by internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, particularly prevalent in Ghana's reliance on diesel, petrol, and Liquified Petroleum Gas, the National Electric Vehicle Policy was crafted to address the multifaceted issues stemming from traditional transportation modes.

The transport sector, both on a global and local scale, emerged as a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, exacting substantial environmental costs. Notably, the combustion of fossil fuels in conventional vehicles became a primary source of air pollution, impacting public health and urban air quality, with global repercussions manifesting in millions of premature deaths. Additionally, the noise pollution generated by internal combustion engines in urban areas posed a threat to overall well-being. The environmental risks were further compounded by fuel spills and leaks, which not only damaged ecosystems but also polluted crucial water sources.

The overarching vision of Ghana's National Electric Vehicle Policy is grounded in fostering the sustainable adoption of safe and affordable Electric Vehicles (EVs). This strategic transition is contingent upon ensuring a reliable electricity supply, a commitment bolstered by Ghana's National Energy Transition Framework (2022-2070), which is dedicated to decarbonizing the energy sector.

Central to the policy's objective is the reduction of emissions and the enhancement of citizen well-being. Through extensive stakeholder consultations, the policy seeks to create an enabling environment for the widespread adoption of EVs. This vision aligns seamlessly with Ghana's broader goals for sustainable development.

The policy outlines eight key objectives, each strategically crafted to address barriers hindering the sustainable adoption of EVs. These objectives range from promoting sustainable demand and supporting the EV supply chain to establishing Ghana as a hub for lithium-ion battery production. Crucially, the policy underscores the need to ensure a consistent electricity supply for EV charging, a critical component of sustainable electric mobility.

Guided by core values and principles such as health and safety, equity, circular economy practices, and inclusivity, the policy is designed to assuage concerns surrounding EV safety, promote fairness, encourage circular economy practices, and ensure an inclusive transition that benefits all segments of society.

To ensure effective coordination and implementation, a specialized Climate Change Unit within the Ministry of Transport, in collaboration with an Inter-Ministerial Committee, will oversee the successful execution of the policy. The implementation will unfold in three distinct phases: a preparatory phase (2024-2026), focusing on addressing challenges; a transition phase (2027-2035), aiming for a 35% EV penetration rate; and an advancement phase (2036-2045), with the ambitious goal of halting new petrol or diesel vehicle sales or imports by 2045. In essence, Ghana's National Electric Vehicle Policy represents a comprehensive and forward-looking approach towards transforming its transportation landscape, promoting sustainability, and mitigating the adverse environmental impacts associated with traditional vehicle technologies.

Leveraging Ghana's EV Policy for Aviation Industry Decarbonisation

The aviation industry stands at the crossroads of an unprecedented challenge and opportunity - the urgent need to curb carbon emissions while continuing to meet the demands of global travel. Ghana's Electric Vehicle (EV) policy presents a transformative pathway for the aviation sector to significantly decarbonize and embrace sustainable practices. Leveraging electric vehicles within the aviation industry marks a pivotal step toward reducing its carbon footprint and steering it towards a greener future.

Electric vehicles have emerged as a promising solution across various transportation sectors, and their integration into aviation operations presents a unique prospect. While the direct electrification of aircraft remains a considerable challenge due to technological limitations, leveraging EVs on the ground is a tangible starting point.

Ground Support Equipment (GSE), including baggage tugs, aircraft tractors, and ground power units, plays a pivotal role in airport operations. Transitioning these vehicles from traditional fossil fuel-powered engines to electric alternatives aligns with Ghana's EV policy objectives and sets the stage for a more sustainable aviation ecosystem. By introducing electric GSEs, airports in Ghana can substantially cut down emissions generated during ground operations, contributing significantly to the industry's decarbonisation. For instance, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has deployed electric baggage tractors, tow tractors, and catering trucks, significantly reducing emissions and noise levels.

Moreover, the EV policy's emphasis on promoting sustainable demand for electric vehicles can extend to incentivizing airlines and aviation-related businesses to adopt electric or hybrid vehicles for their logistical operations. Encouraging the use of electric vans or trucks for cargo transportation to and from airports can further reduce the sector's reliance on fossil fuels. In addition, deploying electric shuttles and vehicles for passenger transportation within airports decreases carbon emissions and enhances air quality.

Charging infrastructure development stands as another critical aspect of leveraging EVs in the aviation sector. Investing in charging stations within airport premises enables efficient charging of electric vehicles used for ground operations. This infrastructure should be strategically positioned to support seamless operations without compromising service efficiency or causing disruptions.

Collaboration between governmental bodies, aviation authorities, private enterprises, and vehicle manufacturers becomes imperative for the successful integration of electric vehicles into the aviation industry. Public-private partnerships can foster innovation, drive investment in EV technology, and streamline the adoption process, aligning with Ghana's vision for a sustainable transport ecosystem.

Education and training also emerge as pivotal elements in this transition. Building human capacity and expertise in operating, maintaining, and managing electric vehicles within the aviation sector ensures a smooth and effective adoption process. This approach facilitates a gradual shift towards cleaner technologies, ensuring the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to navigate this transformative phase.

Several countries have taken significant strides in promoting electric aviation. While fully electric commercial planes are still in the developmental phase, the aviation industry globally is investing in hybrid and electric aircraft. These innovations, like the eFlyer series by Bye Aerospace or the Alice by Eviation Aircraft, present promising prospects for reduced emissions. The EV policy therefore serves as the learning platform for the adoption of such innovations in Ghana airports. Norway is pioneering the use of electric aircraft for regional flights. For instance, the "El-Flot" project aims to introduce electric and hybrid planes for short-haul flights, showcasing the feasibility and benefits of this technology. Several international airports are transitioning their ground fleets to electric vehicles. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Heathrow Airport in London have initiated programs to replace conventional vehicles with EVs for various operational tasks. Other countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, are actively investing in research and development to accelerate the adoption of electric aviation technologies.

In conclusion, Ghana's Electric Vehicle policy offers a framework for the aviation industry to embrace electric vehicles as a stepping stone towards decarbonisation. By integrating electric ground vehicles, investing in charging infrastructure, fostering collaborations, and prioritizing education and training, the aviation sector in Ghana can contribute significantly to reducing its carbon footprint, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

In addition, electric aircraft and ground support equipment, along with electric airport ground vehicles, can significantly reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance sustainability in the aviation sector. Ghana can learn from international examples and collaborate with stakeholders to develop a comprehensive strategy for the adoption of electric aviation technologies. By embracing these innovations, Ghana can position itself as a leader in sustainable aviation and contribute to a greener future.

Authors:

 Mr. William Gyamerah Agyare (Ghana Civil Aviation Authority)

Mr. God’sable Sitsofe Koku Aidam (Aerojet Aviation)

aidamgask@gmail.com /0249656382