The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has addressed public worries about a potential shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Ghana, affirming that the country has sufficient supplies to meet current demands. This reassurance follows recent reports indicating supply disruptions, particularly in the Western and Central regions, which receive LPG from the Ghana National Gas Processing Plant in Atuabo. The plant had faced a temporary processing halt due to power issues, causing concern about the availability of LPG. In a press statement released on October 10, the NPA clarified that there is no immediate threat to the national LPG supply and emphasized that adequate reserves are currently in place.
The NPA’s statement comes as a crucial response to the prevailing anxieties around the LPG supply chain, especially in light of localized distribution challenges. The authority noted that although the Atuabo plant has not yet returned to full production, operations are expected to normalize by October 15, 2024. In the meantime, the NPA has taken proactive measures by directing LPG Marketing Companies (LPGMCs) in the impacted regions to source supplies from the Tema depot. This strategy is intended to facilitate continued access to LPG for consumers while the Atuabo facility gets back on track.
As part of its commitment to ensuring LPG availability, the NPA has shared insightful information regarding the current stock levels. As of October 9, 2024, the opening stock of LPG was more than sufficient to sustain national consumption for nearly two weeks. Additionally, the Sentuo Oil Refinery is playing a vital role by producing LPG daily, further contributing to the ongoing supply efforts. The NPA’s emphasis on both current stock levels and active production from multiple sources reassures consumers that they will not face immediate shortages.
In its ongoing efforts to bolster LPG supply, the NPA has also announced plans to schedule the delivery of over 20,000 metric tonnes of LPG between October 21 and 27, 2024. This initiative, part of the LPG Tender programme, is designed to enhance national reserves and cater to increasing consumer demand. By securing these additional supplies, the NPA aims to maintain stability and reliability in the LPG market, ensuring that consumers have consistent access to this essential resource.
The National Petroleum Authority’s proactive communication and management strategies highlight its commitment to safeguarding the LPG supply chain amidst operational challenges. The reassurance provided by the NPA serves to alleviate public concerns and build consumer confidence in the ongoing operations of the LPG sector. As the Atuabo plant resumes normal operations and the deliveries from other sources are rolled out, it is clear that the NPA is taking significant steps to mitigate the risks associated with supply disruptions.
In summary, the NPA’s reassurances regarding LPG supply and the measures they are implementing to manage potential shortages reflect a well-coordinated approach to meet national demand. By actively addressing production challenges and ensuring that sufficient reserves are available, the authority is committed to preventing shortages and supporting consumer needs across the country. The anticipated resumption of full production at the Atuabo plant, along with planned deliveries, marks a positive trajectory for the LPG supply sector in Ghana.
