Ghana signs landmark deal with Canada to convert waste into electricity and aviation fuel
The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Canadian clean energy firm Portage Energy Group Inc. to develop a large-scale waste-to-energy and waste-to-value project aimed at improving waste management and boosting renewable energy production in the country.
The agreement, signed on May 19, 2026, designates Portage Energy Group as the Preferred Development Partner for the initiative, which seeks to convert municipal solid waste into bio-organic pellets, generate clean electricity, and ultimately produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
The project is expected to begin with technical and environmental engineering studies within the Tema Metropolitan Area, with initial focus on the Kpone Landfill site.
Project scope
Under the partnership, integrated facilities will be developed to produce three key outputs: bio-organic pellets (refuse-derived fuel), electricity generation, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
Each facility is projected to generate up to 25 megawatts (MW) of power, with about 5 MW reserved for internal operations while the remainder will be fed into Ghana’s national grid.
The project will be fully financed by the private sector through Portage Energy Group, with no financial cost to the Government of Ghana.
Environmental and economic benefits
The initiative aligns with Ghana’s climate resilience and circular economy agenda, aiming to reduce landfill waste, cut methane emissions, and extend the lifespan of waste disposal sites.
It is also expected to create jobs, improve urban sanitation, and support the country’s renewable energy transition. In addition, it could position Ghana as a future hub for Sustainable Aviation Fuel production in Africa, with potential export revenue opportunities.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Energy and Green Transition Minister John Abdulai Jinapor described the agreement as a significant milestone in Ghana’s green transition strategy.
He said the project will convert waste into clean electricity, improve sanitation, strengthen energy security, and promote economic growth without requiring public funding.
Chief Executive Officer of Portage Energy Group, Craig Latimer, said the company is honoured to serve as a preferred development partner and pledged to deploy its waste-to-value technology to reduce landfill dependence and support clean energy production.
The Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, also welcomed the agreement, describing it as a reflection of strong bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Canada.
She noted that the partnership highlights Canadian innovation supporting Ghana’s climate and circular economy ambitions.
Next steps
Under the MoU, Portage Energy Group will immediately begin technical assessments and stakeholder consultations.
The two parties will subsequently negotiate detailed operational and power purchase agreements to guide full project implementation.
The initiative forms part of Ghana’s broader efforts to strengthen renewable energy development, improve urban waste management, and advance its position in Sustainable Aviation Fuel production in Africa.
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