"We’ll import 100 electric buses by the end of 2024" - Bawumia

Vice-President of Ghana, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has announced that Ghana will procure and import 100 electric buses by the end of the year, marking a significant stride in the nation's efforts to reduce carbon emissions and address rising transportation costs.

This initiative is poised to revolutionise Ghana’s public transportation system and demonstrate the country's commitment to sustainable development.

Speaking at a meeting with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), Dr. Bawumia highlighted the advantages of transitioning to electric vehicles through a public-private partnership.

“One of the issues we are looking at as far as reducing the cost of transport in Ghana is that we should move towards electric vehicles, which will help the environment. Also, with electric vehicles, two elements will help all of us: It doesn’t consume fuel," he explained.

Dr. Bawumia further noted the economic benefits, emphasising that electric vehicles are less affected by fuel price fluctuations and require fewer spare parts.

“So, when the price of fuel increases, it will not impact the price of electric vehicles. Again, there are not many spare parts in electric vehicles; the main spare part that will be needed will be the battery, which can last for years. It will reduce the transport cost,” he added.

To support the new fleet of buses, the government plans to construct charging stations at various fueling stations nationwide.

“Beginning this month, we are commencing the construction of charging stations because electric vehicles will need charging stations where you can charge your car. We want to place the charging stations in virtually every station’s fueling stations,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

He also elaborated on the government's vision to incorporate renewable energy into the charging infrastructure.

“We want Ghana to move towards solar power. So, the charging stations will be hybrid, both solar and electricity, but we want to move towards this by election. This year, we are hoping to bring in close to 100 electric buses to show the public how it is working,” he said.

Source: classfmonline.com/Elikem Adiku