A Plus champions 270MW solar project for Gomoa Special Economic Zone

Kwame Asare Obeng, the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central known by his moniker A Plus, is spearheading an ambitious renewable energy initiative that could significantly boost power generation for the Central Region's industrial sector. The 270-megawatt solar energy project aims to supply electricity to the Gomoa Special Economic Zone and the Gomoa Eco Park, two key drivers of economic activity and job creation in the area.

On September 8, A Plus led a high-level delegation from AKA Energy Systems, headed by the company's Chief Executive Officer, to present the project proposal directly to President John Dramani Mahama. The meeting underscores the government's commitment to exploring renewable energy solutions whilst simultaneously developing critical infrastructure that supports Ghana's broader industrialisation agenda.

Project timeline and phased implementation

The solar installation will not be constructed as a single undertaking but will instead roll out in carefully planned phases. Phase One of the development is projected to reach completion by the end of 2027, providing the first meaningful boost to power availability at the industrial complex. This staged approach allows for financial flexibility, technical refinement between phases, and the ability to scale operations based on actual demand from tenants and operators within the zones.

The phased strategy is a pragmatic one for Ghana's energy sector, where securing large capital investments and managing project execution timelines remain ongoing challenges. By breaking the project into manageable sections, AKA Energy can demonstrate technical competence and operational reliability, potentially unlocking further investment for subsequent phases.

Why it matters for Ghana

Ghana's energy landscape has undergone significant shifts in recent years, with the country increasingly turning to renewable energy to reduce dependence on thermal generation and imported fuel. A 270MW solar facility would represent a meaningful contribution to the nation's renewable energy portfolio and address the persistent power supply challenges that have constrained industrial growth.

The Gomoa Special Economic Zone represents one of Ghana's strategic initiatives to attract multinational manufacturers and exporters, creating jobs and generating foreign exchange. However, industrial operations demand reliable, affordable electricity. Power constraints have historically deterred investment in similar zones across Africa, so securing dedicated renewable generation could prove transformative for investor confidence and tenant recruitment.

Beyond the immediate industrial application, the project aligns with Ghana's commitments under various international climate accords and renewable energy targets. Solar generation reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves energy security by diversifying the supply mix away from fossil fuels and hydroelectric sources, which are vulnerable to drought cycles.

For constituents in Gomoa Central, the initiative promises direct employment during construction and permanent operational jobs, along with skills development opportunities. Improved industrial capacity could also stimulate demand for ancillary services—transport, accommodation, food services—benefiting surrounding communities.

Next steps and stakeholder roles

With the presidential meeting completed, the focus now shifts to regulatory approvals, environmental impact assessments, and finalising financing arrangements. AKA Energy will need to navigate Ghana's power sector regulatory framework, coordinate with the Electricity Company of Ghana and the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission, and secure land and water resources for the solar installation.

A Plus's role in championing the project reflects the growing importance of parliamentary engagement in major infrastructure initiatives. As a legislator representing the area that stands to benefit most directly, his advocacy helps bridge the gap between private investment, government policy, and local interests, a balance critical to project success in Ghana's institutional environment.