The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Republic of Ghana has given a hint about its plans to review the implementation of a cylinder recirculation model (CRM) programme initiated by the current administration spearheaded by the country’s downstream petroleum regulator – National Petroleum Authority (NPA).
The CRM was introduced by the current government after an atomic gas explosion in 2017 that claimed seven lives, including a journalist.
The programme has led to the establishment of LPG bottling plants where cylinders are filled and transported to exchange points.
Consumers would go to these exchange points with their empty cylinders and exchange them for already filled cylinders.
The policy is aimed at increasing access to LPG usage, creating jobs and reducing the risk of fire explosion at LPG refilling stations.
Although the CRM programme is currently underway, one of the stakeholders – LPG Marketing Companies Association – has raised concerns about the involvement of Sage Petroleum (Quantum Terminals) and Blue Ocean in the programme.
Two weeks ago the LPG marketing companies cut ties with Sage Petroleum and Blue Ocean. In other words, they have ceased doing business with them.
The action of LPG marketing companies triggered a response from the Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors, which is the umbrella body of all bulk oil importers.
On page 64 of the NDC 2024 Manifesto for the December 7 general election, the party has announced some interventions to promote LPG penetration.
Among the interventions are a review of the CRM programme, relaunch of the rural LPG promotion programme and reduction of taxes on LPG.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com