The Energy Commission of Ghana has held a stakeholder awareness and sensitization workshop at AJ Plaza Hotel in Techiman to deliberate on its Draft Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure and Battery Swap Systems Regulations.
The workshop, which brought together industry players, transport operators, policymakers, and civil society actors, aimed to introduce the draft regulatory framework and solicit feedback to guide the development of a robust and inclusive electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem in Ghana.
Participants were taken through key provisions of the draft, including licensing requirements, safety standards, technical specifications, and consumer protection measures, while also creating space for stakeholder input to refine the policy.
Speaking at the workshop, the Program Coordinator for the Drive Electric Initiative at the Energy Commission, Joyce Caitlyn Ocansey, who represented the Commission, explained that the engagement formed part of efforts to keep the public informed as the draft regulation progresses towards becoming a Legislative Instrument (L.I.).
“So, the Commission is in Techiman to engage the public on the Draft EV Charging Station and Battery Swap System Regulations, which are currently undergoing parliamentary approval to become a Legislative Instrument (L.I.).” She stated.
Providing background to the initiative, she disclosed that the Commission had previously engaged the municipality as part of its data collection process.
“In 2022, we visited Techiman to collect baseline data. Based on the findings, the Commission identified the need to develop regulations for EV charging stations and battery swap systems. Having conducted the baseline study here, we have returned to update the people of Techiman on the outcomes and the progress made so far with the draft regulation.” She noted.
Touching on the current situation in the municipality, she indicated that the growing presence of electric vehicles, particularly two- and three-wheelers, makes regulation necessary.
She further acknowledged concerns from sections of the public, especially artisans in the automobile sector, about the potential impact of the transition.
“Electric vehicles are already present in Techiman, particularly two- and three-wheelers. Currently, many users charge these vehicles at home, which increases household electricity demand and puts additional pressure on the national grid. This is one of the key reasons the regulation is necessary.
“We also recognize concerns from the public, especially mechanics, regarding the impact of these new technologies on their jobs and livelihoods. These concerns are not limited to Techiman but have been observed in other places we have visited.” She explained
According to her, the transition to electric mobility is part of a broader global shift rather than a locally driven policy.
“It is important to note that the government is not introducing EVs; rather, this is a global shift. The world is moving towards sustainability and greener energy solutions. Many countries, especially those we import vehicles from, have set targets to transition fully to electric vehicles, some as early as 2030.”
Mrs. Joyce Caitlyn Ocansey, explained that the development presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly in the area of skills development.
“This means that, over time, many of the second-hand vehicles imported into the country will be electric. As a result, there is a need for adaptation. The Commission plans to support this transition by providing certification and training programs to help mechanics upgrade their skills, similar to the electrical wiring certification program introduced in the past,” she added.
Some participants commended the Commission for the consultative approach, describing it as timely and necessary, while urging authorities to intensify public education and provide incentives to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles.
The engagement in Techiman forms part of a nationwide stakeholder consultation process by the Commission to gather inputs before finalizing and implementing the regulations.
Source: Elvisanokye.com