Kumasi, Ghana — June 13, 2025

In a groundbreaking move toward sustainable cocoa production, Ghana has inaugurated its first fully solar-powered cocoa processing plant in the Ashanti Region. The new facility, operated by ChocoGreen Industries, aims to process up to 25,000 metric tons of cocoa annually while running entirely on renewable energy.

The $18 million facility was developed in partnership with the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), the Ministry of Energy, and a consortium of European green technology investors. It is expected to reduce processing emissions by 70% and create over 400 direct and indirect jobs in the region.

“We are not only adding value to our cocoa but doing it in a way that preserves our environment,” said Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Yaw Adusei. “This sets a new benchmark for processing in West Africa.”

Local cocoa farmers are also expected to benefit, as the facility plans to source beans directly from cooperatives in Ashanti and Western North regions. In addition to processing cocoa liquor, butter, and powder, the plant will also manufacture finished chocolate products for export under the Ghana Pure Cocoa brand.

Industry observers believe the facility could inspire a wave of green investment in West Africa’s cocoa sector. With global buyers placing more emphasis on sustainability and traceability, initiatives like this could give African cocoa producers a stronger footing in international markets.

“This is a turning point,” said Patience Boateng, a cocoa industry analyst. “We’re seeing a transition from raw exports to value-added, locally controlled supply chains—and doing it sustainably.”

ChocoGreen’s facility is expected to begin full operations by August 2025.