UNDP Ghana launches electric vehicle and market opportunity study

March 30, 2025
A diverse group of adults and schoolchildren poses together under a shaded area.

Group Photo of participants at the launch of its first electric vehicle and market opportunity study.

@louisa Antwi/UNDPGhana

 

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Ghana has taken a major step toward green mobility with the launch of its first electric vehicle (EV) and on-site charging station, a US$64,617 investment aimed at reducing carbon emissions and advancing the transition to cleaner energy. The initiative is one of 50 eMobility projects supported under the Greening Moonshot, which focuses on reducing the environmental footprint of UNDP operations. It was officially launched at the UNDP office in Accra on 27 March 2025, alongside the release of a market opportunity report on EV charging stations, developed in partnership with the Energy Commission and the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology.

 

Funded by Germany through the Climate Promise, the report outlines strategic opportunities, key challenges, and investment pathways to scale EV infrastructure across Ghana. It aims to accelerate Ghana’s green transition and support the country’s shift towards sustainable transport solutions.

 

Speaking at the launch, UNDP Ghana’s Resident Representative, Niloy Banerjee, highlighted the theme "Sustainable Mobility: Powering Ghana's Green Future," underscoring the organization's commitment to climate action and sustainable energy solutions in Ghana. "There is an urgent need to accelerate and scale up Ghana’s transition to greener pathways, including green mobility solutions that target several segments of the population. Sustainable and green mobility will support efforts toward greenhouse gas emission reductions, improve urban air quality, and promote energy security."

A person smiles from the driver's seat of a white car decorated with blue and white balloons.

UNDP Ghana Resident Representative Niloy Barnejee test driving the new vehicle.

@Evans Adjokatse/UNDPGhana

Abdul-razak Saeed, Environment and Climate lead at UNDP Ghana emphasized the importance of the study "As Ghana embraces the shift toward sustainable mobility, building a strong EV charging infrastructure is key. This report provides a roadmap for unlocking the full potential of EV adoption, outlining clear opportunities for investment, policy action, and private sector engagement to accelerate Ghana’s green transition."

 

Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, Mrs. Eunice Biritwum, highlighted the role of policy and regulatory frameworks in advancing Ghana's transition to electric mobility. "This joint launch underscores the commitment of the Commission and UNDP to driving climate action and sustainable energy solutions, as well as fostering partnerships to support Ghana’s low carbon development agenda.”

Four individuals seated on chairs during a panel discussion with a blue and white backdrop.

From left: Abdul-Razak Saeed, Raymond Ofori, Joyce Ocansey and Dr. Godwin Ayetor during the launch event

@Esther Aryee/UNDP Ghana

Emission reductions and next steps

The project was implemented by UNDP’s team of green energy and technology experts, following UNDP’s 7-Step Process for implementing Smart Facilities. This ensures long-term sustainability through comprehensive site assessments, continuous monitoring, and a strong focus on capacity-building. With the transition to EVs, an estimated 5.23 tonnes of CO₂ emissions will be avoided annually, alongside cost savings of over US$2,138, supporting UNDP’s global Moonshot Target to reduce vehicle-related greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030.

By leading efforts in clean transport, this initiative positions UNDP Ghana as a national leader in eMobility and highlights the potential of EVs in driving a more sustainable future for the country. Looking ahead, UNDP Ghana aims to evaluate the performance of its first new car and explore opportunities for expanding its electric fleet.

Group of six individuals seated on steps, smiling, in front of a promotional banner on EV charging.

UNDP GHANA Resident Representative, Niloy Barnejee with students from the Flag Staff House Basic School during the launch of the EV and Market Opportunity Study Report.

@Esther Aryee/UNDP Ghana