NPA Projects Consistent Sentuo Oil Refinery Production Through December

Accra: The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has announced its expectation for the Sentuo Oil Refinery to maintain a steady level of fuel production through December 2026. NPA Chief Executive Officer Godwin Kudzo Tameklo emphasized that this consistent production would significantly contribute to Ghana's domestic fuel supply in the coming months. In an interview with JoyNews on September 18, 2026, Tameklo expressed confidence in continual production from Sentuo, highlighting its role in ensuring stability in the national fuel supply chain. According to Ghana Web, industry stakeholders have underscored the importance of domestic refining operations like Sentuo and the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) in reducing Ghana's reliance on imported petroleum products. Dr. Patrick Kwaku Ofori, Chief Executive of the Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD), noted that having these refineries operational within the country mitigates the risks associated with product supply insecurity. He estimated that Sentuo and TOR could coll ectively satisfy between 25% and 30% of Ghana's national fuel requirements, with the remainder being met through imports. Dr. Ofori pointed out the necessity for increased refining capacity and heightened efficiency to enable the country to satisfy a larger portion of its fuel demands domestically. However, he cautioned that an increase in domestic refining does not guarantee reduced fuel prices at the pump, as local refineries must purchase crude oil at prices influenced by international market trends. Consequently, local production costs are still subject to fluctuations in global oil prices. In a separate interview on September 17, Dr. Ofori advised motorists not to anticipate immediate reductions in pump prices solely due to the operational status of local refineries. He also criticized the current GHS2-per-litre fuel subsidy, suggesting that the resources might be better allocated towards initiatives such as public transport and developing a long-term energy strategy. Dr. Ofori further noted that ongoi ng global fuel supply constraints could potentially impact Ghana. While the anticipated stable production at Sentuo is expected to bolster domestic supply, the NPA's assurance does not eliminate the possibility of other factors affecting fuel availability or prices. For consumers, domestic refining offers an additional source of supply alongside imports, but the efficiency and cost of refinery operations will continue to be crucial determinants of fuel prices at the pump.