Despite growing support for clean cooking, over 54% of Ghanaian households, and 78% in rural areas, still rely on charcoal, firewood, and crop residues. These fuels continue to drive deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and dangerous indoor air pollution.

Ethanol-based stoves present a cleaner, safer alternative with the potential to reduce reliance on wood fuels and improve household health. Yet, challenges around design, fuel access, and affordability continue to slow adoption.

A recent pilot study by the ACEP revealed strong interest in ethanol stoves among consumers, but also highlighted the need for innovation that makes these technologies safer, more efficient, and locally adaptable.

ACEP is now calling for Expressions of Interest for the Ethanol Stove Innovation Hackathon, a national competition that invites young innovators to design and develop ethanol-based cookstoves that are:.

• Efficient in ethanol fuel use
• Affordable for low-income households
• Safe for everyday use
• Locally adaptable using available materials

Interested parties may apply individually or in teams (up to five members). Selected winners will receive expert mentorship and national visibility for their innovation, and will share in a total grant funding pool of up to $15,000. The grant and mentorship are intended to help improve the blueprint and produce a sample cookstove.

📅 Deadline for submissions: 27th July, 2025