Ashesi’s Renewable Energy (RE) program was initiated in 2017, aimed at increasing the penetration of RE to 40% of total electricity consumption by 2025 (presently accounting for with 13%—15 of total grid electricity consumption). Grid electricity is heavily subsidised by solar PVe and solar water heaters, with periodic energy audits to reduce wastage. The most recent energy audit conducted in 2022 recommended the installation of Export Control Technology (ECT) and a solar storage battery capacity of 552 kWh. This installation will capture the total energy loss to the national grid and reduce grid and cost of electricity consumption. The University’s architectural setup incorporates green building concepts as a key adaptation response measure to improve campus resilience to increasing temperatures and the heat stress caused by global warming. Climate-focused initiatives such as replacing all CFLs with LEDs are a sign of the University’s commitment to energy wastage identification and energy-efficient building and renovations. This minimises greenhouse gases and black carbon emissions as part of our Environmental Social and Action Plan (ESAP), in strong compliance with IFC’s standards.

Ashesi is also committed to increasing access to RE. Examples include Kaniya Energy, an Ashesi student-led initiative that provides affordable solar-powered lighting alternatives for households and individuals living in areas with inconsistent energy supply.

Another example is alumnus Emmanuel Assaam ‘15 who provides clean, affordable energy from renewable sources to homes and businesses across Ghana and other countries as an alternative to charcoal and firewood through his start-up, Gamma Energie.