The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has refuted reports suggesting a possible shortage of LPG in the country.

According to the NPA, the Western and parts of the Central Region receive their LPG supply from the Ghana National Gas Processing Plant in Atuabo.

However, the authority explained that recent power challenges have adversely affected the processing of natural gas, which is the source of LPG, thereby impacting the plant’s overall supply.

The NPA assured consumers that it is actively working to resolve these issues and ensure a steady LPG supply for all regions.

“The Authority therefore directed LPG Marketing Companies (LPGMCs) to load LPG from Tema to serve their retail outlets in these parts of the country.
“Checks with the Ghana National Gas Company (GNGC) on 8th October 2024 indicated that the power challenge has been resolved. However, the Gas Processing Plant is yet to return to full production”.
National Petroleum Authority (NPA)

According to the NPA, the plant is expected to resume regular production on October 15, 2024, bringing relief to concerns about potential shortages.

The authority indicated that there is sufficient LPG in the country to meet national demand.

NPA noted that as of October 9, 2024, the opening stock of LPG was enough to last nearly two weeks of national consumption, ensuring that households and businesses can continue to operate without disruption.

Additionally, the authority indicated that the Sentuo Oil Refinery is producing LPG daily, further contributing to the market supply.

The NPA is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to maintaining stability in the LPG market.

According to the NPA, more than 20,000 metric tonnes of LPG are scheduled for delivery between October 21 and October 27, 2024, as part of the LPG Tender program.

This delivery is expected to bolster the existing supply and ensure that national demand is met.

LPG Terminal Boycott Increases Pressure on Tema Depots

Furthermore, the National Petroleum Authority indicated that the boycott of the Quantum LPG Terminal and the Tema Multi-Product Terminal by certain LPG marketing companies (LPGMCs) has increased pressure on the remaining depots in Tema.

As such, NPA stated that the refusal of these LPGMCs to load from these terminals restricts the volume of LPG that can be loaded from the Tema depots each day, potentially leading to supply constraints and longer wait times for distribution.

Thus, the NPA asserted that it is closely monitoring the situation to address these challenges and ensure a stable and reliable supply of LPG throughout the market.

The authority expressed its commitment to taking necessary measures to mitigate any potential disruptions and to facilitate effective communication with all stakeholders involved.

“The Authority wishes to reassure the public that there is no threat to the supply of LPG in the country and no imminent shortage of the product. The Authority is working closely with all parties to ensure that loading to the Western Region is prioritized to address the challenge in that area”.
National Petroleum Authority (NPA)

The Authority further stated that it will maintain close communication with the Ghana National Gas Company regarding the resumption of regular production at the Gas Processing Plant.

This collaboration aims to ensure a smooth transition back to full operational capacity. The NPA is committed to keeping the public informed by providing timely updates on any developments related to the production schedule and potential impacts on the LPG supply.

By actively engaging with stakeholders and sharing relevant information, the Authority noted that it seeks to enhance transparency and maintain public confidence in the LPG market during this critical period.

Meanwhile, the public remains concerned about the potential for an LPG shortage, despite the assurances provided by the NPA.

This anxiety on the part of the public highlights the importance of effective communication and transparency in addressing community concerns and fostering trust in the authority’s efforts to stabilize the supply.