Ghana President Akufo-Addo will kick off the inaugural Africa Energy Technology Conference (AETC) in Accra, with the goal of exploring efficient and affordable energy technology in order to accelerate the country’s economic growth.
The event, which is set to take place from August 8th to 10th, 2023, is being organised by the Africa Energy Technology Centre (AETC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators from across Africa.
Mr Herbert Krapa, Deputy Minister of Energy, Ghana, stated at the media launch in Accra that the AETC Conference would provide an opportunity for energy stakeholders to find ways to leverage technology to accelerate Africa’s economic and industrial growth.
He stated that approximately 600 million people on the continent did not have access to electricity, making it critical to investigate efficient, affordable, and resilient energy technology to meet the population’s electricity needs.
Mr Krapa stated that the Ghanaian government was diversifying the energy sector by including renewable energy and nuclear energy, as well as distributing cooked stoves and 350,000 solar bulbs to off-grid communities across the country.
The conference’s theme is “Africa at the Forefront of Energy Technology and Policy Integration in a Just Energy Transition.” It will last three days.
It aims to promote African collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in the field of energy technology.
It would also provide a forum for stakeholders to engage in insightful discussions, exchange ideas, and explore long-term solutions to the challenges confronting Africa’s energy sector.
An exhibition session, keynote speeches, panel discussions, interactive workshops, investment platforms, and a technology showcase are all planned.
In an address read on his behalf, Mr Thomas Manu, Board Chair of the Africa Energy Technology Centre, stated that the conference would enable stakeholders to adopt homegrown energy technology and other technologies to address Ghana’s and Africa’s energy needs.
He warned that any energy technology should not result in job losses or have a negative impact on African economies.
In her opening remarks, Ms Emelia Akumah, Founder and President of AETC, stated that some renowned energy experts and thought leaders would address a wide range of topics, including oil and gas, renewable energy, clean technologies, energy access, policy frameworks, deal rooms, and the role of innovation in driving Africa’s energy transition.
“We are thrilled to host the AETC Africa Energy Technology Conference in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy in Ghana,” she said.
She believed that the conference would provide a unique opportunity for stakeholders to share knowledge and explore innovative solutions that could propel Africa to the forefront of energy technology and policy integration.
“Our aim is to facilitate a just and equitable energy transition that prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity, and economic growth for the African continent,” she added.
Participants will be able to network, form partnerships, and learn from leading experts, fostering collaboration and driving the transformation of Africa’s energy landscape.
With Africa poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy, the AETC promises to be a significant milestone in accelerating Africa’s energy transition journey, Ms Akumah stated.
