The AbibiNsroma Foundation has congratulated the Government of Ghana for its decision to remove import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) on solar panels and batteries under the 2027 Budget Statement, describing the move as a significant step towards promoting renewable energy and climate action.
In a press release issued on November 15, 2026, in Accra, the Foundation said the policy would help make renewable energy more affordable and accessible to households, businesses and communities across the country.
According to the organisation, the decision demonstrates the government’s commitment to expanding access to clean energy while addressing the growing effects of climate change.
The Foundation noted that the tax exemptions go beyond reducing the cost of importing solar equipment, describing them as an opportunity to accelerate Ghana’s transition towards renewable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote sustainable development.
Ghana continues to face several climate-related challenges, including flooding, rising temperatures, coastal erosion and other environmental threats.
Against this backdrop, AbibiNsroma Foundation believes increased investment in renewable energy is essential to building climate resilience and securing a sustainable future.
The organisation also highlighted the potential benefits of the policy for households, small businesses, farmers, women and young people who often struggle with the financial barriers associated with adopting clean energy technologies.
It stressed that Ghana’s transition to renewable energy must be inclusive and ensure that the benefits extend beyond individuals and businesses with the financial capacity to invest in solar systems.
Solar tax exemptions to boost climate action
The Foundation said expanding access to solar energy and battery storage could contribute significantly to Ghana’s climate commitments by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving national energy security.
It added that the policy could support local businesses and create employment opportunities within the country’s growing green economy.
The organisation further observed that the decision presents an opportunity for Ghana to strengthen its contribution to the objectives of the Paris Agreement and demonstrate leadership in Africa’s transition towards cleaner energy systems.
However, it cautioned that the success of the policy should not be determined solely by the number of solar panels and batteries imported into the country.
Instead, it said the impact should be measured by the number of ordinary Ghanaians, particularly those in underserved communities, who can afford and benefit from renewable energy.
Foundation calls for inclusive renewable energy policies
Emphasising the importance of a Just Transition, AbibiNsroma Foundation called on the government to place people and communities at the centre of Ghana’s energy transition.
It identified women, young people, low-income households, rural communities, coastal populations and small-scale businesses as groups that require particular attention to ensure they are not excluded from the benefits of renewable energy.
To achieve this, the Foundation urged the government to introduce additional interventions to complement the tax exemptions.
Among its recommendations is the introduction of accessible financing and credit facilities to enable households and small businesses to acquire solar energy systems.
It also called for targeted support for women-led businesses and young entrepreneurs to enable them to participate in the renewable energy industry.
On employment, the organisation urged the government to strengthen technical training and skills development in solar installation, maintenance and battery management to equip young people with the expertise needed to take advantage of emerging green jobs.
The Foundation further encouraged investment in local assembly, manufacturing, innovation and renewable energy technologies to strengthen domestic capacity and attract private sector investment.
It also called for targeted interventions to extend renewable energy access to rural, coastal and underserved communities facing energy challenges.
Additionally, the organisation highlighted the need to strengthen battery recycling, electronic waste management and responsible disposal systems to prevent environmental pollution associated with renewable energy technologies.
Government urged to ensure effective implementation
While welcoming the policy announcement, AbibiNsroma Foundation urged the government to ensure that the tax exemptions are effectively implemented in 2027 and that the resulting savings are reflected in the prices paid by consumers.
It also called on government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, private sector players and community organisations to collaborate to ensure that the policy delivers tangible benefits to Ghanaians.
The Foundation believes renewable energy has the potential to become a major driver of sustainable development, climate resilience, job creation and economic transformation.
“Our message is simple: climate action must not only be about protecting the environment; it must also improve people’s lives,” the organisation stated.
AbibiNsroma Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to working with government, civil society organisations, development partners, and local communities to advance climate justice, renewable energy advocacy and a Just Transition in Ghana and across Africa.
It concluded by congratulating the government on the announcement and expressing optimism that the policy would translate into practical benefits for all Ghanaians.
About AbibiNsroma Foundation
AbibiNsroma Foundation is a Ghana-based organisation committed to environmental sustainability, climate justice, community development, and inclusive sustainable development.
The Foundation promotes locally led climate action, strengthens community participation in environmental decision-making and advocates policies that address the needs and priorities of vulnerable communities in Ghana and across Africa.
