Toward a political economy of sustainable energy in Ghana: A paradigm analysis of energy -development relations from the 11th century to the present

摘要

This dissertation set out to: (1) improve understanding amongst energy practitioners of the nature and role of paradigms in the evolution and maintenance of an energy-economy; (2) isolate and analyze anomalies in the prevailing energy regime and hence demonstrate the need for a paradigm shift as the basis for creating a sustainable energy future in Ghana; and (3) describe the main elements of a fundamentally different alternative to the prevailing paradigm. These objectives are achieved by demonstrating that: the pattern of energy production and use in Ghana is a product of paradigm-directed processes and choices; the prevailing energy paradigm has consistently failed to deliver solutions that are environmentally sound and socially just; and problems associated with the existing energy regime cannot be resolved without a revolutionary shift in the paradigms governing energy choices in Ghana.;The dissertation identifies a number of resistant energy facts that the prevailing paradigm fails to address: The bulk of Ghana's population remains without direct access to improved energy services such as electricity---despite massive investments in a combined hydro---and fossil-energy complex. Simultaneously, the biomass resource base for rural and low-income urban livelihoods dwindles alarmingly within the framework of a dualistic and inequitable energy-economy. Reinforcing this negative situation is the progressive erosion of the indigenous knowledge base, especially as it relates to conservation of biomass resources upon which rural life depends. The dissertation treats these problematic conditions as evidence of paradigmatic failures, arguing that, like Kuhn's 'anomalies' they cannot be resolved through further articulations of the dominant theory---such as implied in current efforts at rural electrification and power sector reform.;Drawing upon Ghana's historical experience, as well as insights from the current development debate, the dissertation presents a radical alternative to the dominant energy paradigm---a 'sustainable energy paradigm.' The sustainable energy paradigm emphasizes a view of energy as a form of natural income rather than capital for the maximization of economic value. Unlike the conventional paradigm, a sustainable energy paradigm would, hopefully, deliver equitable and environmentally sound energy solutions to Ghana's energy and development crises.