Tema Oil Refinery increases processing capacity to 55,000 barrels

The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) is set to nearly double its crude oil processing capacity by the end of October 2026. Managing Director Edmond Kombat announced that engineers from Verga Engineering are currently on-site installing a new F-61 crude heater, which will increase the facility's processing rate from 28,000 barrels to between 45,000 and 55,000 barrels per stream day. This expansion is part of a strategic effort to meet Ghana’s domestic fuel demand through local refining under the administration of President John Mahama.

In a significant move toward financial independence, the recent turnaround maintenance of the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) was funded entirely through the refinery's own internally generated resources. Mr. Kombat highlighted that the work was completed without government financial assistance, signaling a recovery in operational efficiency since the resumption of refining activities on December 19, 2025. The refinery has also successfully cleared its audit backlogs and moved toward a more stable financial position after facing considerable challenges in late 2024.

Addressing public concerns regarding technical capabilities, the Managing Director reaffirmed that TOR is fully equipped to process local Ghanaian crude oil. He refuted claims to the contrary, noting that the facility has been successfully refining Jubilee Medium Sweet crude since May 2026, alongside medium sweet crudes from the Ivory Coast and Nigeria. By refining domestic crude, the refinery aims to retain more economic value within Ghana and ensure a steady supply of products such as premix fuel for the local fishing industry.

Looking forward, TOR management aims to refine 70% of Ghana’s total fuel demand by 2028. The current upgrade to 55,000 barrels per stream day is viewed as an intermediate step toward a long-term goal of 100,000 barrels, with future targets potentially reaching 200,000 barrels through additional investment projects. These developments are intended to reduce the nation's reliance on imported petroleum products and enhance national energy security.