Ghana explores AI applications for solar energy and computing infrastructure

Researchers in Ghana are utilizing artificial intelligence to develop more efficient and affordable solar panels. Supported by the French Embassy, the initiative aims to use AI-powered computational methods to identify material combinations that could increase photovoltaic cell efficiency from the current 22 percent to between 25 and 30 percent. Professor Eric Tutu Tchao of the KNUST DIPPER Lab noted that AI can significantly reduce the time and resources needed to identify promising donor-acceptor pairs for light conversion.

Separately, the feasibility of Ghana’s planned AI compute centre has faced scrutiny. Bright Simons, Vice President of IMANI Africa, raised concerns regarding the project's operational viability. He cited high electricity costs, potential water supply requirements, and the necessity of a consistent power supply as major hurdles. Simons argued that unless energy prices are significantly lower, the facility may require government subsidies or higher service fees to remain competitive.