The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has addressed concerns over a potential shortage of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Ghana, assuring the public that there is no need for fear or panic. According to the NPA, the current supply of LPG is sufficient to meet national demand.
The Authority explained that, a temporary power issue at the Ghana National Gas Processing Plant in Atuabo, which supplies LPG to the Western and Central Regions, led to a brief disruption in LPG processing.
In response, the NPA directed LPG Marketing Companies (LPGMCs) to load supplies from Tema to cover retail outlets in affected areas.
As of October 8, 2024, the power issue at Atuabo has been resolved, although the plant is expected to return to full production by October 15, 2024.
Despite this temporary disruption, the NPA emphasized that Ghana has enough LPG in stock to cover nearly two weeks of national consumption. Furthermore, the Sentuo Oil Refinery continues to produce LPG daily, adding to the supply.
An additional 20,000 metric tonnes of LPG are scheduled to arrive between October 21 and October 27 under the LPG Tender program, further ensuring supply.
The NPA also addressed a boycott by some LPG Marketing Companies against the Quantum LPG Terminal and Tema Multi-Product Terminal, which has placed added pressure on the remaining depots.
However, the NPA reassured the public that efforts are being made to prioritize LPG distribution to the Western Region, where the shortage concerns initially arose.
The authority will continue to collaborate with the Ghana National Gas Company to monitor the situation and provide timely updates regarding LPG production and supply.