• Ghana reaches 89% electrification, among Africa’s highest rates
• 3.7M rural residents still lack access; target is 99% by 2030
• $4.4B plan includes grid expansion, solar mini-grids, renewables

With an electrification rate of 89% in 2024, Ghana is among the most advanced countries in Africa for energy access. Out of a population of 34.4 million, more than 30 million people are connected to the grid.

However, the remaining 11% of the population, approximately 3.7 million people, are primarily concentrated in the northern rural areas, highlighting persistent regional inequalities. By closing this final gap, the former Gold Coast could cement its position as a regional energy model.

The government has set an ambitious target of reaching 99% electrification by 2030. To achieve this, authorities plan to integrate renewable energy, boost its share of the electricity mix from 4% to 10%, expand the national grid, and deploy decentralized solar mini-grids in rural communities.

According to the National Energy Compact, published under the Mission 300 Initiative, these plans will require $4.4 billion in total investment, with $2.6 billion expected from the private sector. Based on current progress and renewed government commitment, the country is on an encouraging trajectory.

Ghana's progress stands out regionally. Nigeria, which has the world's largest population without electricity access, currently only has an access rate of approximately 60%. Meanwhile, Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal are above the Sub-Saharan African average with 2024 rates of 72% and 74%, respectively.

If Ghana successfully bridges the urban-rural divide by relying on a more robust grid and decentralized renewable sources, it could become a key reference for a just energy transition and a model for electrification across the sub-region.

Abdoullah Diop