In line with its sustainability strategy and commitment to reducing carbon emissions, Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS) has commenced the implementation of a solar power project at its container terminal, Terminal 3 at Tema Port. The initiative aims to diversify energy sources, lower long-term electricity costs, reduce the terminal’s environmental footprint, and further strengthen MPS’s sustainability performance.

A feasibility study conducted in 2024, with the MPS consulting engineers AECOM, confirmed the potential to develop up to 6 MW of solar capacity within the terminal footprint. Following a competitive tender process, the contract for the first phase of the solar plant was awarded to a local EPC contractor.

The project will be implemented in two stages. MPS is investing in and will own the solar generation assets as part of its strategy to accelerate renewable energy integration at Terminal 3, beginning with an initial 1.5 MWp solar plant. This first phase will serve as a pilot, providing operational and financial performance data to guide future decisions regarding potential expansion toward the full 6 MW capacity.

The environmental impact is expected to be substantial. The installation will reduce carbon emissions by approximately 2,700 tonnes of CO₂ annually, directly supporting MPS’s sustainability objectives and aligning with broader national and international climate commitments. By embedding renewable energy generation within its core infrastructure, the terminal will strengthen its environmental performance while improving long-term energy security.

The 1.5 MWp system includes the installation of solar panels on roof tops of the MPS Administration Building, the Intrusive Inspection Platform, the Workshop buildings, and the Authorities’ Administration Building.

The project commenced on 11 February 2026 and is scheduled for completion in November 2026, marking a significant step in the terminal’s transition toward cleaner energy and enhanced operational resilience.

The appointed contractor Dutch & Co, represent by Mr Herbert Friese the General Manager, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to design and implement a complex solar plant integrated into MPS’s internal electrical grid and connected to the recently upgraded 25.5 MW backup power plant. The contractor also reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the project within the approved timeframe and in full compliance with national and international standards, as well as the Employer’s requirements.

Abdoul-Rachid Alfa-Traoré, Project Manager at MPS, stated “This project is not only about installing solar panels; it is about embedding sustainability into the operational DNA of Terminal 3. The 1.5 MWp phase allows us to test performance, optimise integration with our internal grid, and build the technical and financial confidence required to scale up toward our full 6 MW potential. It is a carefully structured step toward greater energy independence and our ambition to achieve Net Zero Carbon status.”

Commenting on the development, Mr Mohamed Samara, the CEO of MPS added:

“This project represents a strategic investment in the long-term resilience and sustainability of Terminal 3. By generating electricity demand from renewable sources and reducing, with this step, approximately 2,700 tonnes of CO₂ annually, we are strengthening our operational performance while advancing our environmental commitments.”

Mr Samara further elaborated that during peak daylight hours, the Workshops, Intrusive Inspection Platform, and all Office and Administration buildings will be powered entirely by clean solar energy. Surplus generation will be redirected into the terminal’s internal grid to support the charging of electric terminal trucks, container handling equipment, and other EVs; effectively transforming sunlight into operational power across the Terminal. This integration marks a decisive step toward low-carbon terminal operations at scale.

Upon completion in November 2026, the solar installation will stand as one of the most significant embedded renewable energy projects within a port terminal in West Africa, reinforcing MPS’s position as a forward-looking and environmentally responsible gateway for global trade.