Ghana is laying the legal groundwork for a nationwide electric vehicle (EV) charging network as part of its long-term plan to phase out Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles by 2070.
The Energy Commission of Ghana has convened a three-day technical workshop in Ho beginning February 20, 2026, to finalise draft regulations on EV Charging Infrastructure and Battery Swap Systems. The proposed rules, to be presented to Parliament as a Legislative Instrument, are designed to establish safety, technical and operational standards for the emerging e-mobility sector.
At the heart of the discussions is the need to ensure that Ghana’s EV ecosystem develops in line with international standards while safeguarding consumer safety and supporting climate commitments.
From Pilot Projects to Binding Law
Ms Joyce Caitlyn Ocansey, Project Coordinator of the Drive Electric Initiative (DEI), outlined the progress made since the initiative’s launch in 2019. The DEI aims to promote the productive use of electricity in transport, reduce the risk of Ghana becoming a dumping ground for old ICE vehicles, and accelerate the adoption of cleaner technologies.
Public awareness campaigns, including an e-mobility conference in 2021 and charging infrastructure forums in 2022, have helped shape stakeholder understanding. The Commission has also established a demonstration grid-interactive solar EV charging station with battery storage at its premises, showcasing the integration of renewable energy into the transport sector.
Setting Standards for a Growing Market
According to Mr Kennedy Amankwa, Deputy Director for Energy Efficiency Regulation, the Commission — working with the Ghana Standards Authority — developed and gazetted technical standards for EV charging stations in 2023.
The draft regulations seek to enforce those standards, ensure compatibility across charging systems, protect public health and safety, and promote secure technology transfer as Ghana builds its EV market.
Professor John Gartchie Gatsi, Board Chairman of the Commission, explained that the draft rules are structured around four key areas: residential charging systems; public and commercial charging stations; safety requirements for both charging and battery swap systems; and technical specifications covering siting, cabling and routing.
Once passed, the regulations will empower the Commission to license and regulate the full EV infrastructure value chain — from manufacturing and importation to installation and operation. Data gathered from licensed facilities will also enhance national energy planning and policy oversight.
Inclusive Consultation Process
The Ho workshop brings together the Commission’s Board and the EV Regulations Working Committee for final review, following extensive stakeholder consultations across Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Ho and Koforidua.
Engagements with ministries, agencies, academia and industry players — along with technical committee reviews and public input through media platforms — form part of a broader consultative approach aimed at delivering a robust regulatory framework.
With the draft regulations nearing completion, Ghana is positioning itself to transition from pilot EV initiatives to a structured, regulated electric mobility ecosystem aligned with its climate and sustainability ambitions.
