Evaluation of Potential Impacts of the Introduction of Electric Vehicles in the Transportation Sector in Ghana
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Date
2025-09
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UENR
Abstract
This study evaluated the potential environmental, economic, and socio-technical impacts of adopting electric vehicles (EVs) in Ghana using well-to-wheels analysis, cost comparison, and policy review. Findings reveal that substituting internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) with EVs could reduce lifecycle CO₂ emissions by 30–45%, equivalent to 2.5–3.2 tonnes of CO₂ avoided per vehicle annually. Local air pollutants such as NOₓ and PM₂.₅ could decline by 25– 40% and up to 30%, respectively, improving air quality and public health. Although EVs currently cost 30–50% more than ICEVs, their lower operating costs yield annual savings of US$800–1,200, translating into lifetime savings of US$8,000–12,000 per vehicle. These benefits make EVs economically viable in the long term, especially with supportive government incentives. Policy implications emphasize the need for a coherent national EV framework integrating fiscal incentives, renewable-powered charging infrastructure, and public–private partnerships. Policymakers should prioritize EV integration into Ghana’s transport and energy systems through tax reforms, import duty waivers, and local manufacturing support. Electrifying commercial transport fleets could further enhance emission reductions and energy security.
The study contributes to existing literature by providing context-specific empirical evidence on EV adoption in Ghana, addressing gaps in environmental, economic, and policy analysis within developing economies. It extends the Diffusion of Innovations and Sustainable Development theories to assess socio-technical readiness and institutional feasibility in low- and middle-income contexts. Overall, EV adoption represents a viable pathway toward Ghana’s sustainable transport transition and national emission reduction goals.
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Keywords
Electric Vehicles, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Economic Feasibility