AbibiNsroma Foundation welcomes solar energy tax exemptions in 2027 Budget

AbibiNsroma Foundation has congratulated the Government on its decision to remove import duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) on solar panels and batteries in the 2027 Budget, describing the measure as an important step towards promoting renewable energy and advancing climate action.

The Foundation said the policy would help make renewable energy more affordable and accessible to households, businesses and communities while demonstrating Ghana’s commitment to reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and addressing the effects of climate change.

In a press release issued on November 15, 2026, the Foundation said the tax exemptions presented an opportunity to accelerate Ghana’s transition to clean energy and create economic opportunities, particularly for women, young people, farmers and small businesses who face financial barriers to accessing renewable energy.

It noted that Ghana continues to experience the effects of climate change, including flooding, rising temperatures and coastal erosion, making investments in renewable energy an important component of efforts to build a sustainable and climate-resilient future.

The Foundation also said expanding access to solar energy and battery storage could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy security, support local businesses and create employment opportunities within the green economy.

However, it cautioned that the success of the policy should not be measured solely by the number of solar panels imported into the country but by the extent to which ordinary Ghanaians, particularly those in underserved communities, could afford and benefit from the technology.

AbibiNsroma Foundation urged the government to complement the tax exemptions with measures to ensure that the benefits reach low-income households, rural communities, women and young people.

Among its recommendations, it called for accessible financing and credit facilities to enable households and small businesses to acquire solar energy systems.

It also encouraged the government to support women-led businesses and youth entrepreneurship in the renewable energy sector, invest in technical training for solar installation and maintenance, and promote local assembly, manufacturing and innovation.

The Foundation further called for targeted interventions to extend the benefits of the policy to rural, coastal and other underserved communities.

On environmental sustainability, it urged the government to strengthen battery recycling and electronic waste management systems to prevent pollution associated with the increased use of renewable energy technologies.

While welcoming the policy announcement, the Foundation urged the government to ensure its effective implementation in 2027 and guarantee that the tax savings are reflected in the prices paid by consumers.

It also called on government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, private sector players and community organisations to collaborate towards ensuring the policy delivers tangible benefits.

The Foundation said Ghana has an opportunity to make renewable energy a major driver of sustainable development, climate resilience, job creation and economic transformation.

It reaffirmed its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to advance climate justice, renewable energy advocacy and a Just Transition in Ghana and across Africa.