Opening the session, Rajiv Pradhan, Country Director of Swisscontact Ghana, emphasized the need for targeted interventions that bridge the gap between SMEs, financiers, and technical experts. He noted that SMEs represent both a challenge and an opportunity in Ghana’s energy transition, and empowering them with practical financing and technical support is critical for sustainable growth.
The panel discussion, moderated by Maxwell Beganim, featured representatives from Republic Bank, Ecobank, and AGI, who explored the barriers and opportunities facing SMEs. Speakers agreed that while financing is available, the critical hurdle is the lack of well-prepared, investment-ready projects.
Jacob Hogbenu from Republic Bank explained, “Financing is not absent; what’s missing are well-structured, bankable projects that give financiers confidence to commit.”
The discussions went beyond challenges to highlight concrete steps SMEs can take to accelerate their shift to clean energy. Panelists stressed that the transition begins with energy efficiency, which often requires minimal upfront capital yet delivers significant long-term savings. For many businesses, a simple starting point is to conduct energy audits that reveal where power is being wasted and which systems are consuming the most. These audits provide clarity and help SMEs prioritize low-cost interventions, such as replacing outdated appliances, introducing smart meters, or switching to energy-saving lighting and motors.
Another pathway highlighted was the gradual integration of renewable energy. Rather than making large and expensive commitments at once, SMEs can adopt a phased approach. Small-scale solar installations, for example, can offset a portion of energy use while serving as a foundation for larger systems in the future. Net metering was also emphasized as an avenue for SMEs to feed excess power back into the grid, cutting down on utility expenses while contributing to a more resilient national energy mix.
Isaac Batini added, “We need platforms that connect SMEs with financiers and technical experts. Without coordination, good projects die before they start. An example is a platform designed by AGI with the support of Swisscontact Ghana called BisaConnect ”
The panel also underscored that technical improvements alone are not enough. SMEs must strengthen their ability to present bankable projects that clearly demonstrate return on investment and repayment potential. Financial institutions are increasingly open to supporting clean energy, but they require proposals backed by data and realistic projections. At the same time, building strong partnerships with technical experts, energy service providers, and associations such as AGI was encouraged. These collaborations can open doors to financing, training, and collective resources that would be difficult to access individually.
Ultimately, the session made it clear that small, deliberate steps when approached strategically, can lead to meaningful cost savings, stronger competitiveness, and a more sustainable role for SMEs in Ghana’s clean energy transition.
Stephen Andoh from Ecobank emphasized, “Banks are ready to support, but SMEs must present investment-ready proposals, not just ideas.”
Ultimately, the session made it clear that small, deliberate steps when approached strategically, can lead to meaningful cost savings, stronger competitiveness, and a more sustainable role for SMEs in Ghana’s clean energy transition.
This collaborative side event underscored the urgent need for capacity building, stronger coordination, and innovative platforms that connect SMEs with financial institutions and technical experts. By creating a pipeline of credible, investment-ready projects, SMEs can become central drivers of Ghana’s clean energy transition, unlocking growth and resilience for the wider economy.