Kofa Technologies Ltd., a leading Ghanaian clean energy company, has partnered with impact investor PASH Global to roll out an extensive battery-swapping network across Ghana. This initiative is bolstered by a £2.35 million investment from the Shell Foundation, in collaboration with the UK Government through its Transforming Energy Access (TEA) platform. The primary goal is to enhance energy accessibility through innovative, clean, and portable battery solutions.
Funding Impact
In addition to the Shell investment, a further £1.4 million will be allocated to support Kofa’s initiatives in e-bike asset financing, research in battery technology, and operational costs. The strategic focus is to transition from petrol-powered motorcycles to electric alternatives, significantly reducing air and noise pollution in urban centers throughout the country.
Government Support
The expansion of the battery-swapping network was announced on September 17 by Lord Collins of Highbury, the UK’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Africa. He underscored the UK’s dedication to fostering clean energy initiatives that drive economic growth while strengthening partnerships between the UK and Ghana.
Project Details
Kofa will manage the battery-swapping network, while PASH Global will oversee the deployment and maintenance of the swap stations. The target includes establishing 100 stations and managing 6,000 batteries across Ghana. PASH also plans to power these stations with solar energy, enhancing the project’s sustainability.
Economic Advantage
Preliminary findings indicate that electric motorcycles in Ghana are approximately 20% cheaper to operate than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. As battery prices decline, operating costs are expected to decrease further, paving the way for broader adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).
Clean Energy Transition
Kofi Owusu Bempah, CEO of PASH Global, stated that this collaboration with Kofa represents a pivotal moment in Africa’s clean energy transition. Supported by the Shell Foundation and the UK Government, the initiative lays the groundwork for sustainable and reliable energy solutions across the continent.
Urban Energy Vision
Kofa’s CEO, Erik Nygard, views this project as a critical advancement in providing clean energy to urban environments in Ghana. By reducing dependency on petrol generators, the initiative will benefit local businesses and communities, while serving as a model for clean energy innovation.
Emission Reduction Commitment
Jonathan Berman, CEO of Shell Foundation, emphasized the organization’s goal of reducing emissions and uplifting livelihoods through clean energy. He highlighted that partnerships like the one between Kofa and PASH are essential for scaling clean energy and e-mobility solutions across Africa.
Source: Innovation Village