The University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale became the hub of sustainability dialogue on Friday, May 26, 2025, as the Energy Commission of Ghana held a capacity-building workshop aimed at promoting energy efficiency through Green Public Procurement (GPP). The event underscored the critical role of energy-efficient cooling technologies in achieving Ghana’s commitment to the global net-zero carbon emissions agenda.

Speaking at the workshop, Mr. Edwin Kwasi Tamakloe of the Energy Commission highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of adopting energy-efficient cooling appliances in public procurement. “Modern cooling technologies are not only smarter but also consume significantly less power,” he noted. “This translates into lower electricity bills, reduced reliance on fossil fuels, and ultimately, a smaller carbon footprint.”

Mr. Tamakloe emphasized that newer appliances incorporate advanced features such as inverter technology and smart sensors, enabling more precise energy use. He added, “The refrigerants used in modern appliances, such as R600, R290, and R32, have much lower global warming potential, making them far more environmentally friendly than traditional models.”

He also drew attention to concerning trends in Ghana’s cooling appliance usage. “Data shows that over 76% of air conditioners installed in Ghana are outdated and energy-intensive, contributing to consumption levels between 60% and 80%,” he explained. “The larger the unit and the older the model, the higher the electricity demand.”

Mr. Hubert Nsoh Zan, another resource person at the workshop, reinforced the goals of Green Public Procurement. “GPP is not just about cost; it’s about responsibility,” he said. “Through responsible purchasing, we can significantly reduce our environmental footprint, promote sustainable supply chains, and align with both national and international climate commitments.”

He outlined several procurement considerations, urging public institutions to choose appliances with high energy ratings such as Energy Star or the EU Energy Label, and to assess long-term savings through Lifecycle Cost Analysis. “We must look beyond the initial cost and consider the environmental and operational implications over the lifespan of these technologies,” Mr. Zan advised.

The workshop also stressed the need for institutional reforms and capacity building. Key strategies discussed included aligning procurement with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) policies, mandating energy-efficient standards in public contracts, and conducting awareness campaigns to promote sustainable choices among procurement officers and the wider public. “Energy-efficient procurement is a strategic move,” Mr. Zan concluded. “It not only saves money but also demonstrates government leadership in tackling climate change.”

The event wrapped up with a call to action: investing in energy-efficient cooling is no longer optional, it is a necessary step toward a sustainable, cost-effective, and climate-resilient future. Through strategic procurement and advanced technology, the Energy Commission and UDS aim to lead by example in Ghana’s green transformation journey.

Story by:
Eunice Akeya
UDS Media