West Africa’s first-ever floating Hydro-Solar Hybrid (HSH) plant situated in Ghana was one of the projects showcased as part of the third Huawei Corporate Sustainability Development Forum.
This project is in line with the government’s efforts to diversify Ghana’s energy mix, increase universal access to electricity, and put the country on a low-carbon growth path to ensure sustainable development.
The Bui Power Authority is in charge of this 404MW plant to help support and strengthen the current energy infrastructure, particularly during the dry season when the water levels of the Bui Dam are low.
The plant uses Huawei’s Smart Photovoltaic (PV) Solution, which consists of the Smart Transformer Station (STS), the Smart Inverter Solution, and the Battery Energy Storage Solution (BESS), to store and ensure a stable and reliable supply of electricity.
Located at Banda in the Bono Region not only is the project highlighting Ghana’s role in promoting socio-economic development in rural communities, but it is also more importantly, making a strong case for Ghana as a leader on the world stage in developing diversified renewable energy resources for its citizens.
It is expected that, the Bui Renewable energy project, can be replicated in other Africa countries to drive investment.
The 2023 edition of the Huawei Corporate Sustainabilty Development Forum was held in Dongguan, China on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, themed: “Thrive Together with Tech: Realizing Sustainable Development”.
With the aim of showcasing best sustainable development projects across the globe, best cases were selected from Asia, Europe, America and Africa by explaining how the innovative digital applications of Huawei and its partners enable sustainable development in remote areas.
It focused largely on how Huawei is actively collaborating with industries to advance digitalization in rural healthcare, education, culture and tourism, and agriculture.
“First, we need to do more to reinforce network infrastructure to further promote connectivity and digital inclusion. Connectivity is playing an important role in every aspect of our lives. It makes our lives easier, our economies stronger, and our environment greener. Everyone should have access to stable connectivity. We see connectivity not just as a basic right for every person, but also as a cornerstone of the digital economy”, remarked Dr. Liang Hua, Chairman of the Board of Huawei.
Agro processing
Suffice to note, the reliable and stable supply of energy from the hydro-solar hybrid plant birthed a new venture – the Bui Cashew Limited, located within the Bui enclave covering an expansive area of about 2000 m2.
The factory relies on the energy produced from the HSH plant to fuel its heavy machinery and enhance efficiency and productivity for cashew nut production.
Bui Cashew Limited is a cashew factory capable of producing 6-8 tons of cashew nuts per day.
The project hopes to employ roughly 800 locals and train additional rural people in the cashew nut value chain sector so they can support themselves.
Beneficiaries will be trained in the cultivation, preservation, and processing of cashew from its raw condition to value goods such as cashew oil, cashew butter, and so on.
Beyond the economic benefits, it is environmentally friendly.
Ghana’s First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo said, “this cashew plant will not only provide employment opportunities but also equip beneficiaries with the necessary skillset to make a living on their own. The world is going green and projects such as the hydro-solar hybrid plant show that Ghana is on the right path, towards the realization of a sustainable and eco-friendly digital future”.
Global picture
In Italy, Huawei and the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) have jointly initiated projects involves the implementation of a cloud and AI-powered monitoring system.
This system aids conservationists in comparing biodiversity in agricultural areas managed through organic methods with those managed using conventional approaches.
The overarching objective of this initiative is to foster the development of inclusive, healthy, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Yunnan is making good strides in connectivity based digital infrastructure and is bringing new development opportunities for rural revitalization. Technology is driving smart tourism in Heshun and coffee plantations in Baoshan.
In the area of health, the Smart Villages in Pakistan Initiative aims to modernize and enhance the development of isolated rural communities in Pakistan through digital growth.
For example, regions like Gokina, Pakistan, where quality health services are inaccessible, the introduction of the e-health clinic has empowered residents to seek quick and easy medical services.
These instances underscore the potential of leveraging technology as a powerful tool for socio-economic development.
“Digital technology is reshaping the world, the economy, and the very nature of productivity. Huawei is committed to working closely with its global partners to promote shared success. We will keep innovating to thrive together with technology while realizing sustainable development. Together, we can drive greater digital inclusion and build a fully connected, intelligent world”, Dr. Liang Hua concluded.