Tema Oil Refinery targets 55,000 barrels daily processing by October 2026

Edmond Kombat, the Managing Director of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), has unveiled an ambitious transformation plan to increase the facility's crude oil processing capacity from the current 28,000 barrels to 55,000 barrels per stream day (bpsd). This expansion, scheduled for completion by October 2026, is a pivotal component of the refinery's recovery strategy. The project focuses on enhancing local refining capabilities to significantly reduce Ghana's reliance on imported finished petroleum products and meet rising domestic demand.

To achieve this immediate boost, engineers from Verga Engineering are currently on-site to install and commission the F-61 crude heater. This technical upgrade is essential for raising the processing rate and follows the successful resumption of crude processing operations on December 19, 2025. The management team is prioritizing infrastructure and equipment restoration to ensure the refinery can operate consistently at these higher volumes while maintaining safety and efficiency standards.

The refinery's long-term roadmap, titled the ‘Restoration and Legacy Projects’ for 2026 to 2029, envisions even more substantial growth. Mr. Kombat indicated that TOR aims to expand its capacity further to 100,000 bpsd in the medium term, with an ultimate target of 200,000 bpsd through subsequent investment phases. This strategy includes plans for a new facility with a processing capacity of 115,000 bpsd to support both domestic fuel demand and the growth of the regional petrochemical industry.

Beyond industrial capacity, the transformation agenda encompasses social infrastructure, including the development of a Specialist Hospital and a staff housing project to improve the quality of life for employees and the surrounding community. By 2028, TOR expects to refine approximately 70% of Ghana’s total fuel demand. These efforts represent a comprehensive attempt to restore the refinery as a cornerstone of the national economy and ensure long-term energy security for the country.