The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has responded to growing concerns about a potential Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) shortage in Ghana, reassuring the public that there is no reason for alarm. They confirmed that the current LPG supply is adequate to meet the nation’s demands.
The NPA explained that a temporary power outage at the Ghana National Gas Processing Plant in Atuabo, which services the Western and Central Regions, had caused a brief disruption in LPG processing. However, the power issue was resolved on October 8, 2024, and the plant is expected to return to full production by October 15, 2024.
In the interim, the NPA has instructed LPG Marketing Companies (LPGMCs) to source supplies from Tema to ensure that retail outlets in the affected areas remain stocked. They emphasized that Ghana has sufficient LPG reserves to cover nearly two weeks of consumption. Additionally, the Sentuo Oil Refinery is consistently producing LPG, contributing to the overall supply.
To further bolster availability, an additional 20,000 metric tonnes of LPG are set to arrive between October 21 and October 27 as part of the LPG Tender program.
The NPA also addressed concerns regarding a boycott by some LPG Marketing Companies against the Quantum LPG Terminal and the Tema Multi-Product Terminal, which has placed additional strain on remaining depots. Nonetheless, the NPA is taking steps to prioritize LPG distribution to the Western Region, where shortages were initially reported.
The authority is committed to collaborating with the Ghana National Gas Company to monitor the situation closely and provide timely updates on LPG production and supply, ensuring that the public remains informed and assured.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
