Scaling up distributed solar PV adoption in Ghana's commercial sector

Solar PV presents a promising solution to the high energy costs and unreliable grid supply facing Ghana’s commercial sector. Yet despite strong solar potential and clear economic and environmental benefits, adoption remains limited. Based on interviews with 23 hotels and real estate companies across 4 cities, this study identifies key drivers and persistent barriers shaping solar PV uptake in Ghana’s hotel and real estate sectors. Businesses that have adopted solar are motivated primarily by long-term cost savings, improved energy reliability, and reputational benefits – not by government incentives. For many, this is a pragmatic investment to cut energy bills, reduce diesel dependence, and enhance their brand as environmentally responsible companies. In real estate, solar can also increase property value and market appeal. However, high upfront costs, limited access to finance, and doubts about solar performance continue to hinder uptake. Weak implementation of existing policies, such as the Net Metering Scheme, means that policy support is limited, while the prospect of maintenance challenges often acts a further deterrent. Additionally, some decision-makers hold negative perceptions about solar PV, exacerbated by weak public awareness and a lack of accessible, sector-specific guidance. To close the gap between interest and action, Ghana must improve policy delivery, increase visibility of success stories, and support informed decision-making, ensuring solar becomes a viable, trusted option for more businesses.