Government to replace grid-powered streetlights with solar systems nationwide – Agbodza

The government has announced plans to transition all streetlights in the country from grid-powered systems to solar-powered alternatives, according to Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza. This move aims to enhance the reliability of public lighting and reduce the impact of individual streetlight failures. Mr. Agbodza stated that solar-powered units can operate independently, ensuring continuity of lighting even if one unit malfunctions.

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, will oversee the nationwide implementation of this transition. All new road projects and streetlight replacements will prioritize solar-powered systems, marking a full-scale shift towards solar energy for street lighting.

The Minister also addressed the recent malfunction of traffic lights at the Tema end of the Accra-Tema Motorway, which was initially suspected to be caused by issues with the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). However, investigations revealed that underground cables serving the traffic-light system had been removed, necessitating the engagement of a new contractor to rewire the entire system.

The government's decision to switch to solar-powered streetlights is expected to provide a more resilient lighting infrastructure while reducing reliance on the national electricity grid.