COP31: Jospong targets transition of 1,000 waste trucks from diesel to electric power
The Jospong Group has outlined plans to transition approximately 1,000 waste collection trucks in Ghana from diesel-powered vehicles to electric alternatives as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and advance sustainable waste management.
The initiative, which will be supported by solar mini-grids and dedicated charging infrastructure, was highlighted by the General Manager of the Jospong Green Transition Office, Dr Ing. Glenn Kwabena Gyimah, during a panel discussion at the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Pavilion on Day 4 of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).
Speaking at a session dubbed “The Next Terawatt – Scaling Solar Through Subnational Action”, Dr Gyimah said the proposed transition, alongside the Group’s operations across 36 waste treatment plants, formed part of its commitments towards achieving carbon neutrality.
He also highlighted the Group’s progress in carbon financing, disclosing that its composting facilities had received authorisation from the Swiss Government for carbon mitigation outcomes valued at approximately US$20 million by 2030.
The Group’s renewable energy ambitions come against the backdrop of Ghana’s renewed policy push towards clean energy adoption, following measures announced by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson in the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic.
Presenting the Budget to Parliament on November 12, 2026, Dr Forson announced that solar panels and batteries would be exempted from import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) to lower the cost of adopting solar energy and encourage households, businesses and institutions to invest in renewable energy.
The Finance Minister also urged electric vehicle owners, transport operators and businesses involved in vehicle charging to explore solar-powered charging systems, highlighting the potential of renewable energy to support cleaner transportation.
Additionally, the government outlined plans for a 600-megawatt state-owned solar power plant supported by 2,000 megawatt-hours of battery storage to strengthen electricity supply and improve energy security.
These measures form part of the government’s energy infrastructure and industrial transformation agenda under its proposed US$10 billion New Economy programme, which is expected to run from 2027 to 2030.
The policy direction aims to provide an enabling framework for private-sector investments such as Jospong’s proposed electrification of its waste management fleet, particularly through incentives aimed at reducing the cost of solar equipment and supporting electric mobility.
Dr Gyimah, meanwhile, emphasised the need for stronger partnerships with local governments, innovative climate financing mechanisms and increased investment in solar-powered infrastructure to accelerate Africa’s clean energy transition.
He noted that collaboration among governments, private-sector players and development partners would be critical to scaling renewable energy solutions and advancing sustainable infrastructure across the continent.
