A new renewable energy initiative aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs and strengthening Ghana’s solar energy industry has been launched at the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) Sustainable Energy Business-to-Business Expo in Accra.
The initiative, known as AyaSol, seeks to bridge the gap between technical training and sustainable employment by equipping young people with the skills, resources and business support needed to establish and grow solar energy enterprises.
Funded by the Arthur Waser Foundation and implemented by Swisscontact Ghana in partnership with the Don Bosco Solar Institute and the Certified Electrical Wiring Professionals Association of Ghana, the programme is expected to address some of the key barriers limiting growth in the country’s renewable energy sector.
Industry stakeholders at the launch noted that despite the rapid expansion of Ghana’s renewable energy market, many trained technicians and graduates continue to face challenges in transforming their technical expertise into successful businesses.
Limited access to finance, equipment, market opportunities and entrepreneurial support remain major obstacles for many aspiring solar entrepreneurs.
Participants also highlighted concerns about poor installation practices and weak linkages across the solar energy value chain, issues that have affected service quality and slowed industry development.
To address these challenges, the AyaSol initiative will provide practical technical training, entrepreneurship development support and stronger networking opportunities among key players in the solar energy ecosystem.
Organisers believe the programme will help create a more skilled workforce while promoting higher standards across the industry.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Kofi Anim Ayeko, Renewable Energy Manager at Swisscontact Ghana, said the initiative would enable young people to build sustainable livelihoods while contributing to Ghana’s clean energy ambitions.
He said the growing demand for rooftop solar systems, off-grid energy solutions and mini-grid projects presents significant opportunities for employment creation and economic growth.
“The solar industry presents significant opportunities for job creation and economic growth, particularly as demand for rooftop, off-grid and mini-grid solar systems continues to increase,” Mr. Ayeko stated.
As part of the launch activities, participants were introduced to the AyaSol Seed model through practical demonstrations and exhibitions that showcased successful youth-led solar business concepts and operational models.
The event brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, development partners, financial institutions and renewable energy experts to discuss strategies for promoting innovation, investment and entrepreneurship within Ghana’s renewable energy sector.
Stakeholders used the platform to explore ways of strengthening collaboration across the industry and improving access to resources that can support the growth of local solar enterprises.
Organisers expressed confidence that the initiative would create employment opportunities for young people, improve technical standards in the solar industry and contribute to Ghana’s transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
They added that supporting youth entrepreneurship in renewable energy is essential for expanding access to clean power while creating long-term economic opportunities for the country’s growing youth population.
