This chapter explores the institutional and governance complexities shaping marine renewable energy (MRE) development in Ghana, a lower-middle-income country navigating global climate commitments and domestic energy deficits. Drawing on polycentric governance theory, it analyzes how fragmented institutional frameworks, unequal power dynamics among stakeholders, and macroeconomic challenges hinder Ghana’s energy transition goals. Despite abundant renewable potential such as tidal and wave energy Ghana’s reliance on fossil fuels persists due to weak regulatory systems, limited private-sector engagement, and inadequate technological capabilities. The study highlights the need for coherent policy coordination, investment in local capacity-building, and adaptive governance structures to address the interplay of social, economic, and political factors in MRE adoption. Examining Ghana’s energy transition within the broader context of sub-Saharan Africa, the chapter underscores the critical role of institutional quality and inclusive stakeholder collaboration in achieving sustainable energy systems amid global poly-crisis trends.