Total Ghana Limited has commissioned its first solar-powered service station in the country with a 35 kilowatt capacity, at the Tema main harbour.
The solar-powered station has a total of 225m2 solar panels comprising of 165m2 on the station’s shop and restaurant building, and 60 m2 on the pump island canopy.
This project is part of the modernization plan of the company to solarize at least 50% of its network stations within five years as it contributes to efficient and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
The Managing Director Mr. Eric Fanchini said that the initiative to solarize its network stations aligns with the company’s ambition to be a responsible energy major.
He said ‘the world’s energy future, inclusive of Ghana’s, is being shaped by the dual challenge of climate change and growing demand for electricity. Thus, Renewable energies,particularly solar, are crucial in this new environment’.
‘As a long standing Ghanaian oil marketing company, we are proud to complement the efforts of the Government of Ghana in prioritizing the use of solar energy’ he added.
Speaking on the installation of the solar-powered edifice, Mr. Fanchini mentioned that the entire project was managed by local Ghanaian Engineering and Solar teams.
He added that ‘Total Petroleum Ghana believes that the way to consolidate its social operating license is to share expertise and know-how with the local skilled force, listen to stakeholders and be a responsible corporate leader’.
In addition to the solar installations in its network, the company has launched a competence center to run energy efficiency surveys for Business to Business (B2B) customers.
He said that ‘‘the company also provides various solar solutions from lamps, kiosks and logistics support for Ghanaian start-ups’’. A solar kiosk has been rolled out at three service stations to give customers access to phone charging units and free WIFI at its forecourts.
The Deputy Minister of Energy. Hon. Amin Adam expressed his pleasure that Total Petroleum Ghana had not only transformed one of its service stations to a solarized one but is also diversifying its energy portfolio in Ghana to include renewable energy solutions to businesses.
He stated that ‘this effort does not only improve the carbon footprint of Total Petroleum Ghana, but also augments the effort of the Ministry of Energy in reducing the demand to invest in fossil fuel-powered powerplants and putting the country on a healthy energy mix path’.
He hoped that businesses would take advantage of these opportunities to come on board because of the many benefits that come with renewable energy.
Speaking on behalf of the CEO of NPA, The Director of Administration, commended Total Petroleum Ghana for constantly presenting innovative products and for setting the pace as the first oil marketing company to introduce this solar initiative and offer solar energy solutions to the public.
Source: JOY online
