The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has unveiled a pilot project aimed at transitioning fisherfolk from fossil fuel-based outboard motors to rechargeable, renewable outboard motors.

According to the sector minister, the project seeks to reduce the cost of purchasing fuel for fishing and also lower the country’s carbon emissions.

Speaking at a four-day policy dialogue hosted by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Mr. Jinapor highlighted the transformative potential of the initiative.

“Most of our fisherfolk use what we call premix, which is essentially a mixture of petrol and oil. However, new technology now allows the use of rechargeable outboard motors, even with solar panels,” he explained.

He added that the shift to renewable energy for fisherfolk has already been successfully introduced in other parts of the world.

“Some countries have already pioneered this, and the focus of the ministry will be to carry out the pilot project, where most of our fisherfolk will switch from fossil fuel-based outboard motors to rechargeable, renewable outboard motors " he said .

"This will reduce costs, as it eliminates the need for combustion engines and the purchase of fuel, significantly lowering expenses." he added.

The policy dialogue, held in Accra from 5 to 8 March 2025, is themed “Accelerating Energy Transition in Ghana.”

The event will bring together policymakers, researchers, investors, and the public to promote collaboration and develop actionable recommendations for Ghana’s energy transition.