A coastal community in Ghana’s Volta Region is celebrating a new dawn—quite literally—thanks to a groundbreaking solar energy project supported by the Global Greengrants Fund (GGF) through the African Just Transition Network. The initiative, implemented by the Renewable Energy for Communities Coalition (RE4CC), has brought sustainable lighting solutions to Bomigo, a community of over 800 residents that has lived without electricity for more than 20 years.
Bridging the Energy Gap
Dubbed the “Bomigo Light Up Project,” the initiative delivered solar lanterns to 101 households and installed five solar-powered streetlights at key locations across the community, including the primary school, health post, meeting square, main walkway, and main junction. These installations have not only improved visibility at night but also enhanced safety, supported health services, and extended the hours during which community life can thrive.
Engaging the Community
RE4C began the project with thorough community engagement—consulting with traditional leaders, women’s groups, teachers, youth, and health workers to understand local energy needs. These engagements revealed a shared desire to move away from unsafe and costly kerosene lighting.
GGF’s funding played a crucial role at this stage, covering transportation, accommodation, and logistics, which enabled RE4C to carry out effective stakeholder consultations and mobilize community support.
Training and Awareness
Beyond lighting, the project focused on education and capacity-building. Through workshops and sensitization programs, residents were introduced to the impacts of climate change and the environmental benefits of renewable energy. Partner organizations, such as the Ghana Alliance for Clean Cookstoves and Fuels, Odeibea Foundation, and No Limit Organization, provided health education and alternative livelihood training in areas like bead-making.
Four residents were also trained as “Solar Champions”, equipped to maintain and troubleshoot the solar equipment, ensuring the community’s independence and the project’s long-term sustainability.
Real Impact, Real Change
The impact has been immediate and significant. Families now enjoy clean, affordable lighting, and health risks associated with kerosene fumes have been drastically reduced. The project has empowered women and children by improving nighttime safety and enabling students to study after dark. Most importantly, it has given the community a model of sustainable energy and self-reliance.
Lighting the Path Forward
The Bomigo Light Up Project demonstrates the power of community-driven solutions and international partnerships in tackling energy poverty. With GGF’s critical support, RE4C has not only brought light to Bomigo but also sparked a broader vision for renewable energy adoption across underserved communities in Ghana.
As the sun sets over Bomigo, the streets and homes now shine with the promise of a brighter, cleaner future—powered by the sun and driven by the resilience of a community ready for change.
