Energy Commission Certifies 884 New Electricians Amid Calls for Modernization and Strict Regulatory Compliance

The Energy Commission has officially certified 884 electrical wiring professionals following the completion of the May/June 2026 certification examination. Out of the 1,036 candidates who participated, approximately 85% successfully passed the rigorous testing process, bringing the total number of certified professionals under the national programme to 19,442. This expansion of the certified workforce is a critical component of Ghana's strategy to enhance electrical safety standards and ensure that only qualified personnel are responsible for the country's power installations.

Speaking at the 25th Electrical Wiring Awards Ceremony in Kumasi, officials emphasized that professional certification must be matched by high ethical standards. Mr. Isaac Kusi Appiah, the Ashanti Regional Manager of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), issued a stern warning to certified electricians against the illegal practice of "renting" their professional certificates to unqualified individuals. He noted that such actions significantly undermine the integrity of the profession and warned that any certified professional found facilitating this practice would face severe consequences, emphasizing that they do so at their own risk.

In addition to monitoring professional conduct, the GSA is intensifying its efforts to purge the market of substandard electrical components. Mr. Appiah announced that beginning in October 2026, the GSA will launch a new initiative to test and certify cable dealers specifically within the Ashanti Region. This initiative is designed to make the certification process more accessible for local dealers while ensuring that all cables on the market meet approved safety standards. Electricians have been urged to work exclusively with these approved materials to reinforce the commitment to safety and compliance across the region.

Looking toward the future, the Energy Commission highlighted the urgent need for electricians to upgrade their skills to keep pace with the evolving energy landscape. With the rapid adoption of solar power, battery storage systems, and electric vehicles (EVs), the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The Commission is currently developing new certification syllabi and draft regulations for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. These measures are intended to equip Ghanaian electricians with the specialized knowledge required to safely integrate renewable energy systems and modern mobility solutions into the national grid.