Research shows that Ghana imports a significant amount of outdated, substandard and second-hand appliances. These appliances are usually not energy efficient, contributing to a range of economic and environmental challenges.

Inefficient use of electricity, with 30% of national generation wasted on outdated appliances, strains the economy by requiring increased generation capacity. This inefficiency burdens citizens and businesses with high electricity bills and maintenance costs.

Moreover, the environmental impact is severe, as increased fossil fuel consumption and associated emissions result from the need for additional power plants to meet the increased in power demand. Additionally, the improper appliance disposal adds to environmental and health hazards.

To curb this imminent threat, energy efficiency regulation emerges as a crucial strategy to combat the importation of outdated and inefficient appliances into Ghana, hence the need to engage all stakeholders in its implementation and enforcement.

To support the Government of Ghana in fulfilling its climate commitments and encouraging energy efficiency best practices, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its flagship Climate Promise Programme, in collaboration with the Ghana Energy Commission, organized a capacity-building workshop. This training aimed at strengthening the roles of key government agencies in implementing the latest energy efficiency regulations and enhancing overall awareness.

Abdul-Razak Saeed, Head of the Environment and Climate Cluster of UNDP in Ghana, highlighted the importance of the training. He said, “UNDP remains committed to supporting Ghana in achieving its climate promises and advancing the SDGs. We will continue to foster knowledge-sharing and capacity-building among key sector stakeholders on energy efficiency.”

Mr. Kofi Agyarko, Director of Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency & Climate Change (REEECC) - Energy Commission, noted the significance of the workshop. "As a country, it is crucial for us to establish appliance standards and labelling regimes through effective regulation to guide our energy practices. However, the Energy Commission cannot achieve this alone. This is why we have engaged all stakeholders to champion and support the implementation and awareness creation of these initiatives, aiming to transform Ghana into an energy-efficient economy."