The Renewable Energy for Communities Coalition (RE4CC) is dedicated to promoting affordable, decentralized renewable energy in Ghana, aiming for renewables to account for 10% of the country’s energy mix by 2030.
A key focus is ensuring rural communities with limited or no access to reliable electricity benefit from this transition.
The “Bomigo Light Up” initiative, aligning with Ghana’s Nationally Determined Contributions and Program of Action.
This project replaces kerosene lamps with solar-powered lighting in Bomigo, a rural island community, providing 101 households with solar lamps and installing 5 solar streetlights.
The initiative enhances energy access, promotes education, and supports public health, benefiting over 800 residents. RE4CC’s community-led approach involved local stakeholders in decision-making, ensuring the project’s impact is maximized.
The initiative is made possible through the support of the African Just Energy Transition Network (AJTN), highlighting the importance of energy access for equity, safety, and sustainable development.
The “Bomigo Light Up Project” bridged the energy gap by providing solar lanterns to more than one hundred households and installing 5 solar-powered streetlights in strategic locations.
The community collectively chose the locations, including the primary school, health post, and main walkway.
This initiative improved night-time visibility, security, and access to education, allowing students to study after dark. RE4CC engaged the community through inclusive consultations with local leaders, women’s groups, teachers, youth, and persons with disabilities to understand their energy needs and challenges.
Community consultations highlighted the urgent need to replace kerosene lamps with cleaner, sustainable energy alternatives.
The project received strong support from local government officials, including the District Chief Executive Sandrah Seyram Kpedor and District Planning Officer, Mr. Wisdom Attigah. emphasizing the importance of local leadership in promoting community-cantered energy solutions.
Additionally, the project focused on education and capacity building, going beyond infrastructure development.
Community workshops and sensitization sessions educated residents on climate change, climate resilience, and the benefits of renewable energy.
A network of partners provided training on clean cooking, health, and alternative livelihoods like bead-making.
Four residents were trained as “Solar Champions” to maintain and troubleshoot solar installations, promoting local ownership and sustainability.
Children can now study at night, and families no longer need to rely on toxic kerosene fumes for light.
The impact has been immediate and profound. Households now enjoy affordable, clean lighting. Health risks from indoor air pollution whiles community members especially women and children experience improved safety and convenience after dark.
The project has also helped foster local ownership, community pride, and a shared vision for sustainable development.
The focal person of the Renewable Energy for Communities Coalition (RE4CC), Mrs. Portia Adu-Mensah emphasized, the transformative impact of the initiative, stands as an example of how community-led action, backed by strong partnerships, can effectively tackle energy poverty in underserved areas.
With critical support from the African Just Energy Transition Network (AJTN), the RE4CC has not only brought light to Bomigo but has also ignited a broader vision one where renewable energy becomes a driving force for empowerment, equity, and long-term resilience.
