Renewable energy transition and employment dynamics in an emerging oil-producing economy: A case study of Ghana

Abstract

Shifting to sustainable renewable energy is justified by the failures of global markets brought on by climate change. However, many workers are uncertain about retraining their current employment considering the dynamics associated with renewable energy transition. This has become a major concern especially in oil-emerging countries like Ghana. Our study examines how the global energy revolution has affected the employment dynamics in the Ghanaian economy. Our article focuses on employment vulnerability as Ghana's major energy mix is impacted by renewable energy sources. We use the dynamic ARDL simulation model for the studies and data from the Public Utility and Regulatory Commission, Bank of Ghana, and Energy Commission. Our study concludes that energy transition scenarios would result in a reduction in overall vulnerable employment as well as vulnerable employment for both men and women. However, energy transition scenarios have bigger effects on unemployment for both genders and the entire analysis after the eighth year. Until the eighth year, neither of the two energy transition scenarios significantly affected vulnerable employment for men or women. After the second year, renewable energy transition scenarios reduce vulnerable employment. Therefore, developing a policy framework that aids Ghana's transition to renewable energy is essential.