Evaluating the Effectiveness of Clean Energy Technologies (Renewables and Nuclear) and External Support for Climate Change Mitigation in Ghana

The selection of appropriate electricity generation strategies is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a low-carbon economy. Assessing the effectiveness of clean energy technologies and external support in Ghana’s climate change mitigation is crucial for sustainable development. This study focuses on Ghana’s commitment to emission reduction goals outlined in the country’s Energy Transition Framework, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and the Fourth National Communication (NC4) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These goals recognize the significance of external assistance in achieving a conditional 30% reduction target, along with an unconditional 15% reduction strategy. By utilizing the IAEA MESSAGE model, a comprehensive quantitative analysis is conducted to assess the effectiveness of additional installed capacity of clean energy technologies, mainly renewables and nuclear energy, in mitigating climate change, considering the role of external support. The results highlight the need for a transition from fossil fuel-based sources to low-carbon alternatives such as renewables and nuclear energy to meet emission reduction targets and promote sustainable development. Also, despite the higher investment cost associated with the additional installed capacity, the mitigation measures deployed in the electricity system reduced CO2 emissions by 15% (4,142.2 kilotons). Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of additional clean energy capacity to meet the growing electricity demand, facilitated by external aid. The findings provide valuable insights into best practices and strategies for achieving sustainable development goals in Ghana and can inform policy decisions and support sustainable energy development in other developing countries.