Ghana delivered five Chinese-backed power projects at lower cost
A Washington-based think tank examined five solar, hydro, and gas projects built with Chinese support in Ghana between 2013 and 2020. The report identified four practices that produced lower costs and fewer quality issues than similar projects elsewhere in the region.
SemaforA new report from the Energy for Growth Hub examined five Chinese-supported power projects completed in Ghana between 2013 and 2020. The projects included solar, hydro, and gas facilities. The think tank stated they were completed at reasonable cost, on relatively strong timelines, and with fewer quality problems than comparable projects elsewhere in the region.
Practices identified in the report The report listed four practices that contributed to these outcomes: setting cost benchmarks, using competitive tendering, hiring expert negotiators, and investing in construction oversight. It stated that the host government, which typically owns the asset and carries the debt, must drive the terms, standards, and delivery.
The report concluded that other African countries can apply these practices to improve results from Chinese-supported power projects.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
2 events- 2013-2020
Ghana completed five solar, hydro, and gas projects with Chinese support.
1 sourceSemafor - May 27, 2026
Energy for Growth Hub released report on Ghana power projects.
1 sourceSemafor
Potential Impact
- 01
Other African governments may adopt Ghana practices for future Chinese-backed projects.
Transparency Panel
Related Stories
straitstimes.comJournalists in Gaza to Receive 2026 Golden Pen of Freedom Award
Three international news agencies will accept the award on behalf of their local staff still reporting from the territory. The World Association of News Publishers cited the journalists' continued coverage under extreme conditions.
upi.comSupreme Court Revives Havana Docks Lawsuit Over Confiscated Cuban Property
The U.S. Supreme Court sent a Helms-Burton Act case back to lower courts for further argument. The suit seeks damages from cruise lines that used docks seized by Cuba in 1959.
France 24Pakistan Population Growth Outpaces Infrastructure as Male Contraception Stays Taboo
Pakistan's population exceeds 258 million and could reach 300 million by 2030. Contraception remains largely taboo in a society shaped by traditional values. The country continues to lag behind neighbors India and Bangladesh in key social sectors.