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.

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.

Tumu Landlord Issues Two-Week Relocation Deadline to Clear Path for Ghana-Burkina Faso Road Project
energy and infrastructure|

Tumu Landlord Issues Two-Week Relocation Deadline to Clear Path for Ghana-Burkina Faso Road Project

The landlord and sectional heads of Tumu have issued a firm two-week ultimatum to owners of structures encroaching on designated road paths to relocate immediately. This directive is a critical step toward facilitating major road construction intended to enhance cross-border transportation and trade between Ghana and Burkina Faso. The local leadership’s move highlights a community-driven effort to ensure that infrastructure development proceeds without the delays often caused by land disputes or unauthorized settlements along the right-of-way. Landlord Baba Tommy Kanton, who spearheaded the announcement, expressed gratitude to President John Mahama and the Member of Parliament for Sissala East, Isaah Mohammed Bataglia, for prioritizing the Tumu-Burkina Faso road within the government’s national infrastructure program. He emphasized that the development of Tumu should transcend political affiliations, urging residents to cooperate for the collective benefit of the region. The landlord’s stance underscores a growing local consensus that modernization and improved transit links are essential for the area's economic growth and regional connectivity. Member of Parliament Isaah Mohammed Bataglia has confirmed that the road project is scheduled to commence shortly after the expiration of the two-week ultimatum. While the deadline is firm, some affected residents have voiced concerns regarding the logistical challenges of moving their structures and belongings. Alhaji YY, representing those impacted, has appealed for a brief three-day extension for individuals who are struggling to secure new locations. Despite these minor requests for leniency, the project is expected to move forward as the town prepares for its transformation into a vital trade gateway between Ghana and its northern neighbor.

Ghana Airports Company Limited Sweeps Top Honors at ACI Africa Conference 2026
energy and infrastructure|

Ghana Airports Company Limited Sweeps Top Honors at ACI Africa Conference 2026

Ghana’s aviation sector reached a significant milestone as the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) secured two prestigious accolades at the ACI Africa Conference 2026. Held in Abuja, Nigeria, on September 22, 2026, the event recognized Accra’s international gateway for its exceptional performance in passenger service and operational innovation. These awards underscore Ghana's growing reputation as a regional hub for air travel excellence and highlight the successful modernization of its aviation infrastructure. Specifically, the airport was named the winner of the Passenger Facilitation and Readiness Excellence Awards 2026 within the Innovation and Transformation Category. This award recognizes GACL's commitment to implementing cutting-edge technologies and streamlined processes designed to enhance the traveler experience. Additionally, the airport earned the Runner-Up spot in the Stakeholder Integration Category for facilities handling between two million and five million passengers annually, reflecting the company’s ability to coordinate effectively with various agencies and service providers to maintain seamless daily operations. Managing Director of GACL, Mrs. Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, formally received the awards during the conference’s Gala Dinner. In her acceptance, she emphasized that the recognition is a testament to the hard work of the entire GACL team and their unwavering dedication to operational excellence. The judging panel specifically praised the company for its proactive approach to enhancing passenger facilitation, noting that GACL's efforts in transforming the airport experience serve as a model for stakeholder collaboration across the continent. As the primary representative body for African airports, ACI Africa plays a critical role in promoting safety, security, and efficiency throughout the industry. For Ghana, these awards validate the strategic investments made into airport infrastructure and management over recent years. As passenger volumes continue to grow, this international recognition reinforces GACL’s commitment to maintaining world-class standards, positioning Ghana’s aviation facilities as premier destinations for both international and domestic travelers.

energy and infrastructure|

Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam Calls for Petroleum Tax Overhaul Amid Ineffective Diesel Price Relief

Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam, the former Finance Minister and current Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, has urged President John Mahama’s administration to conduct a comprehensive review of taxes and levies on petroleum products. Dr. Amin Adam argues that the government's recent GH¢2 intervention on diesel prices has failed to provide meaningful relief to consumers. Despite the reduction, current diesel prices remain high, fluctuating between GH¢17.55 and GH¢18.99 per litre, leaving a significant financial burden on the Ghanaian public. In a critique shared on September 27, 2025, Dr. Amin Adam compared the current measures unfavorably to those of the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration. He asserted that the NPP had implemented more permanent and effective relief measures to support consumers during periods of high global fuel prices. He characterized the current GH¢2 cut as a temporary and insufficient gesture that does not address the fundamental cost drivers within the petroleum pricing formula. The Ranking Member is advocating for the government to scrap or significantly reduce specific levies to provide more sustainable economic relief. This proposal comes as citizens face rising operational costs in transport and commerce, which are heavily influenced by fuel prices. Dr. Amin Adam’s call for a fiscal overhaul suggests that without removing these tax layers, minor price adjustments will continue to have negligible impacts on the cost of living. As the debate over energy pricing intensifies, the Finance Committee is expected to face further pressure to address these concerns. The current administration now faces the challenge of balancing revenue requirements with the urgent need to stabilize the energy market for the benefit of ordinary Ghanaians. The outcome of this policy debate will likely shape the economic discourse as the country navigates the remainder of the 2025 fiscal year.

Energy Commission Strengthens Appliance Regulation Enforcement Through Intensive Customs Training in Kumasi
energy and infrastructure|

Energy Commission Strengthens Appliance Regulation Enforcement Through Intensive Customs Training in Kumasi

The Energy Commission of Ghana has launched a strategic capacity-building initiative in Kumasi, targeting Customs officials to strengthen the enforcement of national energy efficiency regulations. This training serves as a critical intervention to ensure that all imported electrical and cooling appliances meet mandatory performance standards before they are permitted to enter the Ghanaian market. By focusing on the primary points of entry, the Commission aims to curb the influx of energy-inefficient products that strain the national power grid and increase utility costs for consumers. During the training sessions, officials were briefed on various legal instruments and technical performance criteria governing 19 different appliance categories. The Commission revealed that current compliance rates across these categories stand at approximately 54%, highlighting a significant need for more rigorous oversight and better coordination between regulatory bodies and frontline officers. Discussions emphasized the pivotal role of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) as the primary gatekeeper against non-compliant goods, focusing on the identification of counterfeit certifications and substandard products. To support both enforcement officers and the general public, the Energy Commission has also introduced a new mobile application designed to verify energy efficiency labels in real-time. This digital tool allows users to authenticate the energy ratings of appliances instantly, helping to eliminate the market for products with fraudulent or misleading labels. This technological intervention is expected to bridge the gap between regulatory requirements and market reality, providing a transparent and accessible mechanism for monitoring product standards across the country. Looking forward, the Commission expressed optimism that deepened collaboration with stakeholders like the Customs Division will steadily improve compliance figures and protect the economy from the dumping of inferior goods. As Ghana continues to prioritize energy security and infrastructure development under President John Mahama’s administration, such regulatory enforcement remains vital for achieving long-term sustainability goals. The Commission intends to expand these training programs nationwide to ensure a uniform standard of inspection and compliance at all border posts and ports of entry.

A large group of men, primarily young professionals, are seated in rows of white chairs at what appears to be an outdoor certification or graduation ceremony. Many attendees are wearing lanyards with identification badges, and the official Energy Commission logo is visible in the top right corner of the frame.
energy and infrastructure|

Energy Commission Certifies 884 New Electrical Professionals to Support Ghana’s EV and Solar Expansion

The Energy Commission of Ghana has officially certified 884 new electrical wiring professionals following the May/June 2026 examination cycle, marking a significant expansion of the country's technical workforce. This latest cohort brings the total number of certified practitioners in Ghana to 19,442. The certification comes at a pivotal moment as the nation transitions toward more sustainable energy solutions, focusing heavily on the integration of solar power and the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market. The initiative is designed to strengthen the nation's capacity to handle modern electrical demands while ensuring public safety through professional standardization. During the 25th Electrical Wiring Certification and Awards Ceremony held in Accra, Acting Executive Secretary Adwoa Serwaa Bondzie detailed the Commission's forward-looking strategies. A primary highlight was the announcement of a new national platform designed to track and monitor electric vehicle charging stations across the country. This digital infrastructure is intended to provide critical data for national energy planning, allowing authorities to assess and mitigate the potential impact of high-demand EV charging on the national grid. Industry experts present at the event underscored that as electric mobility becomes more prevalent, the need for a highly skilled, certified workforce to manage and maintain this infrastructure is paramount for grid stability. In addition to the certification of new professionals, the Commission launched a revised Electrical Wiring Code. This update is specifically tailored to address the evolving technological landscape, incorporating rigorous standards for solar energy installations and electric vehicle charging systems. The revised code aims to enhance safety and ensure strict compliance as domestic and commercial energy users increasingly adopt renewable technologies. The ceremony, themed "Setting the Standard: Powering Ghana’s Future – EV, Solar and Beyond," served as a call to action for the newly certified professionals to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in their work. The certification of these nearly 900 professionals reflects a broader national strategy to formalize the energy sector and reduce the risks associated with substandard electrical work, which has historically been a source of domestic fire outbreaks. By aligning professional training with the rise of green technologies, the Energy Commission is positioning Ghana’s workforce to lead the West African sub-region in the transition to a modern, diversified energy economy. As the demand for clean energy and efficient transport grows, these certified professionals will play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and safety of the national infrastructure.

energy and infrastructure|

Takoradi Traders Reject Minister Ayariga's Pre-Rent Funding Plan for Market Redevelopment

Traders at the Takoradi New Market have formally rejected a government proposal to fund the stalled Takoradi Market Circle Redevelopment Project through a pre-rent payment scheme. Minister Mahama Ayariga recently proposed that spaces in the unfinished facility be rented out in advance, with financial institutions managing the payments to provide the capital necessary for construction to resume. However, the trading community has dismissed this strategy, insisting that the government must secure alternative financing to finish the project before any occupancy fees are collected. During a recent site visit to the project, Minister Ayariga outlined a plan where banks would partner with the government to collect rent from prospective occupants, which would then be reinvested to move the project toward completion. Madam Lamisi Adam, the convenor and representative for the traders, countered this proposal by highlighting the severe financial hardships merchants are currently facing at their temporary relocation sites. She noted that previous payments made during their initial relocation have not yielded the promised results, leaving many traders skeptical of making further financial commitments for a project that remains in limbo. The traders' representative emphasized that occupancy certification and full project completion are non-negotiable prerequisites for any rental payments. "We will only pay once the project is finished and fit for occupancy," Adam stated, reflecting a consensus among the market women and men. They argue that the current proposal is unfeasible given the low sales volumes and the prevailing economic climate, urging the government to develop a more effective financing strategy that does not place the burden of capital injection directly on the traders themselves. This standoff places the future of the Takoradi Market Circle Redevelopment Project in a delicate position, as the stalled construction continues to hamper local commerce in the Western Region. With the government looking to public-private partnerships and rent-backed loans to bypass budgetary constraints, the firm opposition from the primary stakeholders signals a need for further negotiation. The resolution of this funding dispute will be critical for the timely delivery of the modern market facility and the revitalization of Takoradi's commercial hub.