Ghana Energy & Infrastructure News

Follow Ghana's energy and infrastructure story: electricity supply and the power grid, ECG and dumsor, fuel prices, oil and gas, and the road, rail, and port projects reshaping the country. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

President John Dramani Mahama addressing the Ghanaian community during the town hall meeting in New York
energy and infrastructure|

President Mahama Announces 1,200MW Gas-Fired Thermal Power Deal to Bolster Ghana’s Energy Security

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a landmark initiative to transform Ghana's energy landscape, revealing plans to finalize agreements for 1,200 megawatts (MW) of gas-fired thermal power by the end of this year. This expansion, which is set to become the nation’s largest thermal power capacity, is a central component of the government's strategy to ensure long-term energy security and support industrial growth. Speaking during a town hall meeting in New York, the President emphasized that the development is critical for Ghana to adapt to the ongoing global energy transition and maintain economic competitiveness on the world stage. The project comes on the heels of significant structural reforms within the energy sector. President Mahama highlighted that his administration has successfully cleared substantial debts and reorganized the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). These efforts were specifically aimed at creating a more stable and financially viable sector, ensuring that power producers are paid promptly and reliably. This improved operational framework is expected to further boost investor confidence and facilitate the seamless integration of the new 1,200MW capacity into the national grid. Beyond the immediate energy goals, the President pointed to a broader recovery in the national economy, fueled in part by the revitalized oil and gas sector. He noted that the country has seen a significant drop in interest rates and a stabilizing exchange rate for the cedi, which collectively create a more favorable environment for both domestic and foreign investment. As the government moves to sign the final power agreements, the emphasis remains on leveraging these infrastructure gains to drive sustainable economic stability and position Ghana as a leader in regional energy production.

energy and infrastructure|

Chancellor John Healey Negotiates with US to Prevent Diesel Export Ban as UK Fuel Prices Hit Record Highs

Chancellor John Healey has initiated critical discussions with United States authorities in an effort to prevent a potential ban on diesel exports that could severely impact the United Kingdom’s energy security. This diplomatic push comes as UK diesel prices have surged to an unprecedented high of 199.33p per liter, placing immense pressure on both consumers and the broader economy. The UK government is moving to secure its supply chains as global energy markets remain volatile, with Healey warning that any restriction on American exports—reportedly under consideration by the Trump administration—would lead to further price hikes at the pump and exacerbate the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.\n\nThe urgency of these negotiations is underscored by the UK's significant dependence on American energy products. Currently, the United Kingdom relies on the United States for approximately one-third of its total diesel imports. This reliance has become more pronounced due to supply disruptions linked to the Russia-Ukraine war and escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have constrained traditional supply routes and reduced global refinery output. Chancellor Healey emphasized that maintaining the flow of fuel from the US is vital for stabilizing the domestic market, noting that the current price spikes are largely driven by these external geopolitical pressures.\n\nIn addition to international supply concerns, the UK faces domestic fiscal challenges that could further inflate fuel costs. A long-standing freeze on fuel duty is scheduled to expire at the end of this year, a move that would automatically trigger price increases unless the government intervenes. Healey’s strategy involves a dual approach: securing international supply through diplomacy while monitoring domestic tax policy. He has called for a renewed focus on diplomatic resolutions to conflicts in the Middle East, asserting that a more stable geopolitical climate is essential to alleviating the persistent upward pressure on global fuel prices.

Puma Energy partners 5 distributors to boost LPG access
energy and infrastructure|

Puma Energy Ghana Bolsters LPG Access Through Local Partnerships and Multi-Million Dollar Investment

Puma Energy Ghana has launched a significant strategic expansion into the country’s Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector, signing partnership agreements with five local distributors to accelerate the adoption of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM). This initiative aligns with the government's ambitious goal of achieving 50% LPG penetration across Ghana by 2030. By decentralizing the retail network, the collaboration aims to provide cleaner cooking solutions and improve public health outcomes by making LPG more accessible to households that currently rely on traditional solid fuels. As part of a multi-million-dollar investment strategy, Puma Energy plans to significantly expand its infrastructure, with a target of introducing over 40,000 new branded cylinders into the market by September 2026. The CRM framework is central to this rollout, allowing consumers to exchange empty cylinders for filled ones at no additional cost for the container, thereby removing the high financial entry barrier of cylinder ownership. The company expects this expansion to eventually serve approximately 30,000 local communities, leveraging the expertise of fully Ghanaian-owned enterprises to enhance energy security and stimulate local economic growth. The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has expressed strong support for these developments, emphasizing the importance of private sector investment in achieving national energy targets. During a recent meeting with a Puma Energy delegation, NPA Chief Executive Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo reaffirmed the regulator's commitment to providing an efficient, transparent, and fair regulatory environment. Mr. Tameklo highlighted the necessity of building trust between the industry and the regulator to facilitate a stable market that encourages the kind of long-term capital commitments required for the CRM's success. This partnership represents a critical step in Ghana's transition toward sustainable energy and modernized infrastructure. By focusing on safety and reliability, the collaboration between Puma Energy and local distributors aims to professionalize the LPG value chain while protecting consumers. As the CRM continues to gain momentum, the combined efforts of the private sector and the NPA are expected to transform the domestic energy landscape, reducing the environmental impact of charcoal and wood fuel while creating new employment opportunities within the local distribution network.

Aliko Dangote Vows to Overcome Legal Hurdle Halting $16 Billion Kenya Refinery Project
energy and infrastructure|

Aliko Dangote Vows to Overcome Legal Hurdle Halting $16 Billion Kenya Refinery Project

Nigerian tycoon Aliko Dangote has expressed firm resolve to contest a court order that has temporarily suspended the development of his $16 billion oil refinery project on the Kenyan coast. Despite the legal setback, Dangote remains committed to the massive infrastructure project, which is designed to produce 700,000 barrels of oil per day. The billionaire businessman, regarded as Africa’s richest person, characterized these legal challenges as common obstacles that investors frequently encounter when navigating the complex business landscape across the continent. The proposed refinery is a cornerstone of Dangote’s broader vision for energy independence in Africa. With an estimated production timeline of 30 months from the start of operations, the facility aims to drastically reduce the continent's reliance on imported refined petroleum products. However, the project has met resistance in the form of litigation centered on land rights and environmental impacts. Critics and local stakeholders have raised concerns about the ecological footprint of such a large-scale industrial operation on the Kenyan coastline, leading to the current judicial intervention. Dangote’s ambition extends beyond the Kenyan borders; he envisions a future where Africa is mostly self-sufficient in fuel by 2030. He has emphasized the critical need for African nations to stop the historical trend of exporting raw materials only to import expensive finished products from abroad. By processing crude oil locally, Dangote argues that the refinery will trigger a significant wave of industrial growth and economic empowerment throughout the East African region and the wider continent. Declaring ‘We are ready for them!’ in response to the court order, Dangote’s stance signals a determined effort to keep the multi-billion-dollar investment on track. The outcome of this legal battle will be closely watched by international investors as a litmus test for large-scale infrastructure development and the balance between industrialization and community rights in East Africa. For now, the project remains at a crossroads between the continent's urgent need for energy security and the increasing scrutiny of environmental regulations.

Roads Minister Agbodza Summons Consultants and Directs Contractors to Expedite Major Highway Projects
energy and infrastructure|

Roads Minister Agbodza Summons Consultants and Directs Contractors to Expedite Major Highway Projects

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, has issued a series of stern directives to contractors and supervising consultants across several key infrastructure projects, signaling the Mahama administration's zero-tolerance policy for delays. During a comprehensive inspection tour of major road corridors on September 29, 2025, the Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work and the absence of critical oversight personnel, warning that the government is prepared to take drastic measures to ensure project timelines are met. These site visits form part of a broader effort to monitor the progress of vital transport links connecting the capital to the northern and Ashanti regions. A significant confrontation occurred at the site of the Accra-Kumasi Bypass, where Minister Agbodza summoned the supervising consulting firm, ADK, following their absence during his visit. Highlighting the indispensable role of consultants in maintaining construction standards, the Minister criticized the lack of progress reports and the firm's lack of on-site presence. He warned that if a satisfactory explanation is not provided, he would recommend the firm’s removal and task the Ghana Highway Authority (GHA) with taking over supervision. Despite these concerns, Agbodza commended the laborers on-site for their continued efforts, reiterating the project's importance to President John Mahama’s development agenda. In Kumasi, the Minister turned his attention to the Kumasi Outer Ring Road and the Suame Interchange projects. He urged Arab Contractors Ghana Limited to hasten their pace on the ring road, specifically calling for a transition from earthworks to concrete works. Minister Agbodza emphasized the unprecedented scale of the project and insisted that no time extensions would be granted unless absolutely justified by the contractor. Furthermore, he directed road agencies to overhaul their design review processes for the Suame Interchange, suggesting that technical sessions be held in single sittings or at temporary site facilities to eliminate the lengthy feedback processes that currently hamper progress. These directives reflect a broader push by the Ministry of Roads and Highways to modernize project management through real-time adaptability and accountability. By demanding on-the-spot design reviews and threatening the replacement of non-performing consultants, Agbodza aims to bridge the gap between planning and execution. The Minister’s tour serves as a clear message to all stakeholders in the infrastructure sector: the current administration views the completion of these major corridors as a national priority that will not be compromised by administrative bottlenecks or professional negligence.

Energy Commission Certifies 884 New Electricians Amid Calls for Modernization and Strict Regulatory Compliance
energy and infrastructure|

Energy Commission Certifies 884 New Electricians Amid Calls for Modernization and Strict Regulatory Compliance

The Energy Commission has officially certified 884 electrical wiring professionals following the completion of the May/June 2026 certification examination. Out of the 1,036 candidates who participated, approximately 85% successfully passed the rigorous testing process, bringing the total number of certified professionals under the national programme to 19,442. This expansion of the certified workforce is a critical component of Ghana's strategy to enhance electrical safety standards and ensure that only qualified personnel are responsible for the country's power installations. Speaking at the 25th Electrical Wiring Awards Ceremony in Kumasi, officials emphasized that professional certification must be matched by high ethical standards. Mr. Isaac Kusi Appiah, the Ashanti Regional Manager of the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), issued a stern warning to certified electricians against the illegal practice of "renting" their professional certificates to unqualified individuals. He noted that such actions significantly undermine the integrity of the profession and warned that any certified professional found facilitating this practice would face severe consequences, emphasizing that they do so at their own risk. In addition to monitoring professional conduct, the GSA is intensifying its efforts to purge the market of substandard electrical components. Mr. Appiah announced that beginning in October 2026, the GSA will launch a new initiative to test and certify cable dealers specifically within the Ashanti Region. This initiative is designed to make the certification process more accessible for local dealers while ensuring that all cables on the market meet approved safety standards. Electricians have been urged to work exclusively with these approved materials to reinforce the commitment to safety and compliance across the region. Looking toward the future, the Energy Commission highlighted the urgent need for electricians to upgrade their skills to keep pace with the evolving energy landscape. With the rapid adoption of solar power, battery storage systems, and electric vehicles (EVs), the industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The Commission is currently developing new certification syllabi and draft regulations for electric vehicle charging infrastructure. These measures are intended to equip Ghanaian electricians with the specialized knowledge required to safely integrate renewable energy systems and modern mobility solutions into the national grid.

National Petroleum Authority Navigates 76% Fuel Import Dependency Amid Institutional Reforms and Staff Welfare Launch
energy and infrastructure|

National Petroleum Authority Navigates 76% Fuel Import Dependency Amid Institutional Reforms and Staff Welfare Launch

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has revealed that Ghana remains heavily dependent on international markets for its energy needs, with locally refined products accounting for only 24% of the country’s fuel supply between January and August 2026. This data, shared by Abass Ibrahim Tasunti, Director of Economic Regulation and Planning, underscores a significant vulnerability to global price fluctuations. To manage this imbalance, the NPA is currently balancing import volumes against fluctuating local production levels to ensure national fuel security, while simultaneously launching a series of internal and external initiatives aimed at improving sector transparency and institutional performance. To address the human resource challenges inherent in managing such a critical sector, the NPA officially launched its 2026 Staff Welfare Celebration on September 28, themed ‐Our People, Our Teamwork and the Spirit That Makes NPA One Family.‑ Chief Executive Godwin Kudzo Tameklo announced several new measures to boost morale and productivity, including enhanced allowances and an extension of paternity leave. Deputy Minister of Energy Richard Gyan Mensah, who attended the launch as the Special Guest of Honour, emphasized that employee wellbeing is directly linked to the authority’s ability to regulate the downstream petroleum sector effectively and meet national energy goals. In tandem with internal welfare improvements, the NPA is coming under increased public and media scrutiny regarding its operational efficiency. On the same day as the welfare launch, the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), in partnership with the Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) and Transparency International-Ghana, held a specialized training session for journalists. This workshop focused on the Auditor-General’s Performance Audit Report on the NPA, aiming to empower the media to report more accurately on issues of accountability, value for money, and regulatory compliance within the petroleum sector. As the NPA moves through its week-long celebration—which includes entrepreneurial fairs, waste management workshops, and the commissioning of boreholes in the Eastern Region—the agency is attempting to bridge the gap between internal institutional health and external economic pressures. The combination of improved staff conditions and heightened transparency through performance audits is expected to create a more resilient regulatory body. However, the long-term stability of Ghana's energy sector will likely depend on the NPA's success in shifting the current 76% import reliance toward greater domestic refining capacity.

ecg
energy and infrastructure|

PUWU Postpones Nationwide Protest Against Private Sector Involvement in ECG After Talks with Energy Ministry

The Public Utilities Workers’ Union (PUWU) has announced the postponement of its planned nationwide protest against the proposed Private Sector Participation (PSP) in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The demonstration, which was set to mobilize utility workers across all operational regions, was halted following the commencement of high-level discussions between union leadership and the Ministry of Energy. Initially, the union had planned to gather at the Trades Union Congress (TUC) headquarters in Accra to voice their opposition to the inclusion of private entities in the management of the state-owned power distributor. The decision to suspend the industrial action follows a series of meetings that began on September 28, 2025, aimed at addressing the union's specific concerns regarding the PSP arrangement. PUWU had previously outlined plans to present a formal petition to President John Dramani Mahama through regional ministers, highlighting their grievances and the perceived risks of privatizing aspects of ECG’s operations. Despite the initial call to action, the planned assembly at the TUC headquarters did not take place as the union chose to prioritize the ongoing dialogue with government representatives. At the heart of the dispute is the union's resistance to the government's strategy of involving the private sector to improve ECG’s efficiency and financial viability. PUWU members have expressed fears over job security and the potential for increased utility costs, advocating instead for internal reforms. Sources indicate that while the protest is currently on hold, the union has not officially canceled its plans. The final decision to either reschedule or permanently call off the demonstration will depend entirely on the outcome of the current negotiations with the Energy Ministry. This postponement provides a temporary reprieve for the energy sector, avoiding potential service disruptions that often accompany large-scale utility strikes. As the government under President Mahama continues to seek solutions for Ghana's energy infrastructure challenges, the engagement with PUWU is seen as a critical step in maintaining industrial harmony. Both parties are expected to continue their deliberations in the coming days, with the public and industry stakeholders closely monitoring whether a consensus can be reached that satisfies both the union’s demands and the government’s infrastructure objectives.

COMAC Warns of Fuel Supply Crisis, Urges Indefinite Suspension of Customs Act Section 136
energy and infrastructure|

COMAC Warns of Fuel Supply Crisis, Urges Indefinite Suspension of Customs Act Section 136

The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has formally called for the indefinite suspension of Section 136 of the Customs Act, 2026, warning that its implementation could trigger a national fuel supply crisis. The organization asserts that the provision, which transfers tax accounting responsibilities from Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to Bulk Import, Distribution, and Export Companies (BIDECs), poses a significant risk to the stability of the downstream petroleum industry and the broader Ghanaian economy. According to COMAC, the shift threatens to create a "fuel supply shock" if enforced in its current form. Central to COMAC's opposition is the argument that the transition will delay, rather than expedite, tax revenue collection. The Chamber contends that BIDECs typically require longer durations to settle their tax obligations compared to OMCs. Dr. Riverson Oppong, Chief Executive of COMAC, has highlighted that concentrating taxation at the BIDEC level increases systemic risk. Because BIDECs manage significantly larger volumes of petroleum products, any financial or administrative bottleneck at this stage could lead to widespread shortages at the pumps. Furthermore, COMAC argues that Section 136 fails to address underlying flaws in the revenue collection system, merely shifting existing challenges to a different segment of the supply chain. The industry group has also criticized the government for a lack of adequate stakeholder consultation prior to the enactment of the legislation. COMAC representatives stated that many of the current concerns could have been resolved through proper engagement with industry players. While the Chamber expresses support for other sections of the Customs Act and remains committed to improving tax compliance among OMCs, it maintains that the rationale behind Section 136 is fundamentally flawed. The organization has already reached out to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to seek clarification on perceived inequities and is urging Parliament to consider legislative amendments. If the provision is enforced without modification, COMAC warns of the potential for accumulating significant tax arrears for the state and a destabilized energy market. The Chamber is advocating for a collaborative approach where the government and industry stakeholders work together to refine tax collection processes without compromising energy security. As the industry awaits a formal response from legislative and revenue authorities, the priority remains avoiding a disruption in fuel availability that could impact all sectors of the economy.

A row of green and black Aayalolo buses, branded with the Scania logo, are lined up in a parking area in Ghana. A man wearing a dark green uniform leans against the front bus on the left, while the fleet stretches into the background under a pale sky.
energy and infrastructure|

Local Government Ministry Launches Aayalolo Contra-Flow System and Fixed Schedules to Combat Accra Traffic

The Ghanaian government has launched a new contra-flow traffic arrangement for Aayalolo Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services across major corridors in Accra to address persistent urban congestion. Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, announced that the initiative, which commenced on September 29, 2026, aims to significantly reduce peak-hour travel times by prioritizing high-capacity buses on key routes. This strategic move is part of a broader effort under President John Mahama’s administration to modernize public transport and provide a more reliable and efficient alternative for commuters entering the Central Business District. The contra-flow system operates during peak morning hours from 6:00 am to 9:00 am and evening hours from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Specific lanes have been designated for exclusive BRT use, barring other vehicles to ensure uninterrupted movement. The initiative covers four primary corridors: Amasaman–Accra, Pokuase–Accra, Adenta–Accra, and Kasoa–Accra. To further enhance reliability, Minister Ayariga confirmed that Aayalolo buses will now adhere to fixed departure schedules, meaning buses will leave terminals on time regardless of whether they have reached full passenger capacity. This transition is being managed in collaboration with the Motor Transport and Traffic Department (MTTD), the Greater Accra Passenger Transport Executive (GAPTE), and the Department of Urban Roads. Central to this expansion is the goal of encouraging private car owners and solo drivers to switch to public transport. Minister Ayariga emphasized that by providing a faster, more comfortable travel alternative, the government hopes to reduce the sheer volume of private vehicles on the road during peak times. He explicitly addressed concerns from the commercial transport sector, clarifying that the Aayalolo expansion is designed to complement rather than replace traditional "trotro" operations. Under the new arrangement, Aayalolo buses will prioritize long-distance, direct trips into the city, while trotros will continue to serve their traditional roles in handling shorter, inter-neighborhood distances. This pilot program represents a critical step in the government's strategy to improve the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area's infrastructure and professionalize the public transport experience. By providing predictable transit times and dedicated road space, the administration aims to foster a culture of mass transit use. As the contra-flow arrangement undergoes its initial rollout, officials will monitor traffic flow and commuter feedback to determine the feasibility of further expansions to resolve Accra's long-standing gridlock challenges.

COPEC Projects Significant Fuel Price Hikes for October; Diesel to Surge by 22.91%
energy and infrastructure|

COPEC Projects Significant Fuel Price Hikes for October; Diesel to Surge by 22.91%

Motorists and consumers across Ghana are bracing for a substantial increase in petroleum prices scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026. According to the latest projections from the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC), diesel is expected to see the most dramatic rise, with a projected 22.91% jump from GH18.24 to GH22.42 per litre. Petrol prices are also slated for an upward adjustment of 5.21%, moving from GH16.90 to approximately GH17.78 per litre. These increases come at a time when the cost of living remains a critical concern for the Ghanaian public, with the price surge expected to hit the transport and manufacturing sectors particularly hard. The anticipated price hikes are driven by a combination of international market volatility and local currency challenges. COPEC attributes the surge to rising international petroleum prices, which have reportedly climbed from $103.07 to $124 per barrel, alongside a slight depreciation of the Ghana cedi against the US dollar. Beyond liquid fuels, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) consumers are also expected to face higher costs, with prices projected to rise to GH15.68 per kilogramme. Industry analysts warn that without immediate policy cushions, these adjustments will inevitably lead to higher inflation across various sectors of the economy. In response to these projections, COPEC has issued an urgent appeal to both the government and the private sector to mitigate the impact. The Chamber is calling on Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to consider reducing their profit margins to help absorb some of the costs for the end consumer. Furthermore, there is a renewed push for the government to expedite the expansion and modernization of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR). COPEC argues that increasing local refining capacity is the only sustainable long-term solution to reduce Ghana's heavy reliance on expensive imported petroleum products and shield the domestic economy from global price shocks. The ripple effects of fuel adjustments are already a point of contention within the transportation sector. In the Upper West Region, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has highlighted the strain that rising operational costs place on both drivers and commuters. While the union has previously managed minor fare adjustments, officials like Alhaji Nuhu Mahama have urged passengers to report any unapproved charges to ensure stability. As the October pricing window approaches, the government faces increasing pressure to stabilize the energy market and protect citizens from the escalating costs of basic transit and fuel.

energy and infrastructure|

Government and PUWU Enter Crucial Talks Over Proposed Private-Sector Participation in ECG and NEDCo

The Ghanaian government has initiated high-level consultations with the Public Utilities Workers Union (PUWU) regarding the potential introduction of private-sector participation in the country’s major electricity distributors, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo). This meeting, held on September 28, 2026, marks a pivotal moment in the administration's efforts to reform the energy sector, which has faced ongoing challenges regarding operational efficiency and revenue collection. The government’s move aims to explore whether private expertise can stabilize the distribution network and improve the financial viability of these state-linked utilities. PUWU has firmly registered its opposition to the proposed involvement of private operators, advocating instead for the government to provide the necessary resources and technical support to help ECG and NEDCo improve their performance internally. The union argues that privatization is not a silver bullet for the sector's woes and that strengthening the existing state-run frameworks would be more beneficial for both the workforce and the general public. During the discussions, Deputy Minister Richard Gyan-Mensah underscored the government’s intent to listen to these concerns, noting that the primary objective is to find sustainable solutions for revenue management while acknowledging the vital role the union plays in the sector. The consultative process is intended to be inclusive, with the government planning to assess a wide range of options based on feedback from workers, civil society, and other key stakeholders. By bringing the union to the table early in the decision-making process, the Ministry aims to minimize industrial friction and ensure that any policy shifts are informed by the technical and operational expertise of frontline staff. The outcome of these talks will likely determine the future trajectory of Ghana's power distribution, as the government weighs the promise of private sector efficiency against the traditional model of state-managed utility services.