The Ghana National Gas Company Limited (GNGCL) has achieved a monumental milestone by saving over $250 million in operational costs. This remarkable feat was accomplished by utilizing the expertise of Ghanaian engineers and technicians for the maintenance and operations of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant.
This transition, which took place in April 2017, saw Ghanaian professionals assume control from Sinopec, the Chinese contractors, resulting in savings of approximately $3 million every month. Dr. Ben K. D. Asante, the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Gas, shared these insights during a ministerial news briefing in Accra.
A Workforce of Excellence
Dr. Asante highlighted the role of nearly 1,000 permanent and contract Ghanaian staff who now oversee key operations, including the control room and various technical units of the plant. This localization effort is part of a broader strategy to indigenize the gas processing industry, instilling confidence in the capabilities of local professionals.
Since the takeover, the team has successfully executed three major shutdowns of the gas plant for maintenance, with all activities led solely by the Ghanaian engineers. These shutdowns included critical processes such as pipeline pigging, pipeline integrity management, and the implementation of ISO 45001 standards for occupational health, environmental safety, and management systems. Notably, there has been zero lost time due to injuries, underscoring the team’s efficiency and commitment to safety.
Community Impact
Through CSRBeyond operational achievements, Ghana Gas has made significant contributions to national development through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company has completed over 400 projects across all 16 regions of Ghana, with more than 80 additional projects underway. These projects span key areas such as healthcare, education, water and sanitation, and sports infrastructure.
“Our commitment as good partners to the community goes beyond business operations,” Dr. Asante noted. “We invest in road infrastructure, support sports development, and run skills training and livelihood empowerment programs to uplift communities.”
Driving Energy for Ghana’s Growth
The GNGCL plays a critical role in Ghana’s energy sector, supplying natural gas that generates 80% of the country’s thermal power. Additionally, the company supplies 6% of lean gas and condensate used for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), meeting 50% of domestic LPG demand.
Pioneering Indigenous Gas Infrastructure
Established in July 2011, Ghana Gas is tasked with building, owning, and operating natural gas infrastructure. Its mission is to process, transport, and market gas and its derivatives to support Ghana’s industrial and energy needs.
Dr. Asante’s revelations underscore Ghana Gas’s success in leveraging local expertise to achieve operational excellence, significant cost savings, and impactful community development, making it a shining example of indigenous resource management.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
