Sentuo offers fuel supply reassurance as NPA sees steady output through December

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) predicts Sentuo Oil Refinery will maintain steady fuel production through December 2026, serving as a key domestic supply source complementing imports. This assurance was given by NPA Chief Executive Godwin Kudzo Tameklo during an interview with JoyNews on September 18. Tameklo emphasized the company's consistent production from September 18 until December during the same interview.

The Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD) Chief Executive, Dr Patrick Kwaku Ofori, also stressed the significance of Sentuo and the Tema Oil Refinery operating domestically. Speaking to Citi News on September 16, Ofori highlighted that having these two refineries within the country reduces the burden of supply instability. Dr. Ofori estimated that the two refineries could potentially meet between 25% and 30% of Ghana's total fuel consumption, with imports fulfilling the remaining demand.

He advocated for increased refining capacity and improved efficiency to allow for a larger portion of Ghana's petroleum requirements to be met locally.

However, Dr. Ofori cautioned that increased domestic refining would not necessarily result in lower fuel prices at the pumps, as refineries continue to purchase crude at internationally benchmarked prices. In a separate interview on September 17, he stated that an immediate reduction in pump prices due to the return of local refining was improbable.

He criticized the GH¢2-per-litre fuel subsidy, arguing that it may not provide equal benefits to all consumers. Instead, Dr. Ofori recommended greater investment in public transport and a long-term energy strategy.

He also warned that persistent disruptions in global petroleum supplies could still impact Ghana. For consumers, the expected stability in Sentuo's production ensures domestic supply capacity, while pump prices will continue to be affected by international crude prices and other market dynamics.