Ghana Launches Pilot 24‑Hour Operations in Downstream Petroleum Sector
On Tuesday, May 12 2026, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) unveiled a pilot programme that will allow selected fuel stations, depots and refineries to operate around the clock. The initiative, announced by NPA Chief Executive Officer Godwin Edudzi Tameklo at a launch event in Accra, aims to test new operating models, improve service delivery and strengthen the country’s energy supply chain.
Selection of Facilities
The regulator has chosen a total of 268 retail outlets together with eight storage depots and two refineries for the first phase. The depots and refineries named in the announcement are:
- BOST Depots – Kumasi
- Accra Plains Depot (APD) – near Kpone Barrier
- Tema Tank Farm
- TFC – Tema
- Vana Energy – Tema
- Quantum Terminals – Tema
- Ghanstock Depot – Takoradi
- Zen Terminals – Takoradi
- Tema Oil Refinery
- Sentuo Oil Refinery
Regional Distribution of the Pilot Stations
The 268 fuel stations slated for 24‑hour service are spread across four administrative regions:
- Greater Accra
- Ashanti
- Western
- Northern
This geographic spread allows the NPA to evaluate performance under different demand patterns and infrastructural conditions.
Objectives and Safety Measures
According to the NPA, the phased rollout will enable the authority to:
- Test real‑time monitoring systems powered by modern technology.
- Refine operating models for continuous fuel dispensing.
- Ensure the transition is efficient, safe and sustainable.
Safety and security remain a top priority. The NPA said it will work closely with the National Security Secretariat, the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana National Fire Service and the Ghana Ambulance Service to uphold the highest standards. Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno has publicly pledged his support, noting that robust security arrangements are essential for round‑the‑clock petroleum operations.
Statements from Officials
Speaking at the launch, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo emphasized the strategic importance of the downstream sector:
“The downstream petroleum sector remains a cornerstone of the Ghanaian economy, powering transportation, driving industry, supporting trade and underpinning almost every aspect of modern life.”
He added that extending operating hours would increase productivity, improve service delivery and create sustainable employment opportunities.
Presidential Adviser on the Government’s 24‑Hour Economic Initiative, Goosie Tanoh, echoed these sentiments, stating that the pilot is expected to boost productivity and support higher national economic output.
Economic Impact and Next Steps
By removing the traditional time constraints on fuel sales, the NPA anticipates:
- Reduced queues and waiting times at pumps.
- Better utilisation of storage and transportation assets.
- Increased revenue for operators and the government through higher throughput.
The authority plans to monitor key performance indicators — such as sales volume, incident reports and customer satisfaction — during the pilot. Findings will inform a potential nationwide rollout of 24‑hour operations in the downstream petroleum sector.
Source: Energy News Africa
