Abstract
This study examines the effects of applying an integrated systems approach, with an emphasis on energy and land systems in Ghana. Three scenarios were developed —the Base Case Scenario, the Built-up Land Scenario, and the Renewable Energy Target Scenario – which were created through modelling exercises using the CLEWs framework and OSeMOSYS tool.Findings from the base case scenario reveal that the renewable energy (solar, wind) and nuclear power sources added in the modelling were not shown as part of the power-producing technologies through the modelling years after the model run. However, when the renewable energy target was implemented, it forced investment in renewable energy power plants resulting in a reduction in C02 emission, and water demand for power generation. Also increasing land for built-up areas led to reduced agricultural land and a slight increase in the demand for public water supply.Recommendations include a policy that halts the land for built-up areas by 2050 to conserve the lands for forests which would serve as a carbon sink. Land use policies that balance the need for built-up areas with the preservation of land for renewable energy projects should be developed and enforced. Also, the study recommends policies that incentivize the adoption and integration of renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind, into the national grid. This could include subsidies, tax incentives, or feed-in tariffs to make renewable energy more attractive to investors and developers
