The government has announced plans to replace conventional grid-powered streetlights with solar-powered systems across the country. This decision is part of efforts to improve the reliability of public lighting.
Solar-Powered Streetlights to Replace Grid-Powered Units Nationwide
Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, said the decision would reduce the impact of faults on individual streetlights, since solar-powered units can operate independently of one another. This move is expected to provide a more resilient lighting system while reducing dependence on the national electricity grid.
New Road Projects to Prioritize Solar-Powered Systems
The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, will lead the nationwide transition to solar-powered streetlights. All new road projects and streetlight replacement works will now prioritize solar-powered systems. This shift in approach aims to minimize the impact of power outages on streetlights.
Recent Traffic Light Failure Explained
The recent failure of traffic lights at the Tema end of the Accra-Tema Motorway was not caused by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), contrary to initial suspicions. Investigations showed that underground cables serving the traffic-light system had been removed, leaving the government with the task of engaging a new contractor to completely rewire the system.
Full-Scale Transition to Solar Energy for Street Lighting
The government has taken a decision to replace all streetlights with solar. With solar, even if one is damaged, the others can work, said Minister Agbodza. This approach aims to reduce the reliance on the national electricity grid and provide a more reliable lighting system.
What's Next for Ghana's Street Lighting?
The shift to solar-powered streetlights is expected to have a significant impact on the reliability of public lighting in Ghana. As the government continues to transition to solar-powered systems, it remains to be seen how this change will affect the overall efficiency of the country's street lighting. With the Minister for Energy and Green Transition leading the nationwide transition, it is clear that the government is committed to providing a more resilient and sustainable lighting system for its citizens.
Source: Joy Online
