Ghana: It’s Outrageous That Petrol Consumption In Upper East Rose By 86.39% In Just Half A Year; Something Is Wrong – COMAC

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: It’s Outrageous That Petrol Consumption In Upper East Rose By 86.39% In Just Half A Year; Something Is Wrong – COMAC
The 2025 Midyear Industry Report on Ghana’s petroleum downstream sector has stirred controversy among oil marketing companies, who are questioning the sharp increase in petrol, diesel, and LPG consumption in the Upper East and Upper West regions despite relatively low economic activity in those areas. For the first half of the year, Ghana’s petroleum consumption across all products reached over 3.62 billion litres, representing a 17.65% increase over the 3.07 billion litres consumed during the same period in 2024. Surprisingly, the Upper East Region recorded an exceptional 80.2% growth, followed by the Ashanti Region with 22.2%, Upper West with 21.7%, and the Eastern Region with 21.2%. The Brong Ahafo Region followed with 19.2%, the Western Region with 17.9%, and the Central Region with 16.2%, while Greater Accra recorded 6.9% growth. The Northern and Volta Regions recorded 9.4% and 3.4% growth respectively. In terms of products breakdown, the report revealed that petrol consumption in the Upper East Region grew by 86.39%, while diesel increased by 68.54%, alongside a 32.37% rise in LPG consumption and a dramatic 571.53% surge in Cell Site Gasoil. However, kerosene usage declined by 50%, indicating that households are shifting to cleaner fuels.

Regional Fuel Consumption Analysis

The Ashanti Region recorded an 18.57% rise in petrol consumption, 7.49% in diesel, and 18.28% in LPG, reaffirming its status as Ghana’s economic and commercial hub. Demand for Cell Site Gasoil surged by 261.54%, while kerosene consumption fell slightly by 12.5%.

In the Upper West Region, total supply rose by 21.72%, driven by an impressive 85.93% jump in LPG — the strongest in the country and clear evidence of successful LPG penetration. Petrol rose by 24.71%, diesel by 12.96%, while kerosene demand remained stagnant.

The Eastern Region expanded by 21.17%, supported by strong growth in diesel (12.99%) and petrol (15.84%), while LPG inched up by only 1.32%. Kerosene and premix consumption, however, declined sharply by 7.14% and 56.14%, respectively. The standout product was Cell Site Gasoil, which recorded an extraordinary 1,021.59% growth.

In the Western Region, consumption grew by 17.87%, led by diesel (37.34%) and petrol (47.73%), reflecting increased mining and industrial activity. LPG use rose moderately by 11.48%, but kerosene (-76%) and Cell Site Gasoil (-40.54%) volumes declined. Notably, Marine Gasoil (Foreign) surged by 832.09%, reinforcing the region’s role as Ghana’s offshore and maritime hub.

Greater Accra, the largest consumer with over one billion litres, grew by just 6.94%, indicating a saturated market. Petrol and diesel consumption increased marginally by 4.57% and 3.55%, respectively, while kerosene fell sharply by 41.72%, and Marine Gasoil (Local) declined by 24.52%. In contrast, Fuel Oil for Power Plants skyrocketed by 4,572.7%, driven by industrial power generation needs.

The Volta Region recorded the slowest growth at 3.37%. Gains in petrol (17.29%) were outweighed by declines in diesel (-4.53%), LPG (-31.09%), and kerosene (-100%). Although Cell Site Gasoil rose sharply by 538.79%, overall volumes remained low.

In the Brong Ahafo Region, total volumes rose by 19.17%, supported by robust growth in petrol (31.95%) and diesel (32.36%). LPG dipped slightly by 8.34%, while Cell Site Gasoil fell sharply by 70.52%.

Finally, the Northern Region recorded a 9.37% increase in total volumes, with diesel (12.89%) and petrol (9.82%) leading the growth. However, LPG consumption fell significantly by 49.53%, a concerning setback to national efforts to promote LPG use in the northern sector. On a positive note, Cell Site Gasoil rose by 70.85%.

COMAC Challenges Report Findings

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Monday, October 6, 2025, the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), Dr. Riverson Oppong, and Board Chairman, Mr. Gabriel Kumi, described the midyear report figures as “very outrageous.”

They questioned why regions with relatively low economic activity recorded high fuel consumption compared to economically vibrant areas.

According to them, some Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) may be lifting products from depots in Tema but dumping them in Greater Accra, while falsely claiming to have transported them to the Upper East and Upper West Regions to fraudulently claim the Unified Petroleum Price Fund (UPPF).

They further noted that the infractions and irregularities in the 2025 midyear industry report were worse than those recorded in the same period of 2024.

Dr. Oppong and Mr. Kumi expressed shock that two of their members — Yass Oil and Moari Oil — with 79 and 9 retail outlets respectively, could increase their half-year sales from 25 million and 28 million litres in 2024 to 120 million litres in the first half of 2025.

Dr. Oppong added that COMAC has written to the two OMCs and to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), the industry regulator, to seek clarification on the reported irregularities

    Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

Kenya Power Unveils Revamped Digital Customer Engagement Platforms And First AI Chatbot

Michael Creg Afful
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Kenya Power Unveils Revamped Digital Customer Engagement Platforms And First AI Chatbot
Kenya Power has unveiled its revamped digital service platforms aimed at enhancing the experience of its more than 10 million electricity customers. In a statement, the company also announced the launch of an AI Chatbot dubbed “Nuru”, which will respond to customers’ queries on the company’s website and Facebook page, KenyaPowerCare. The chatbot will also allow customers to report incidents such as power outages and chat directly with a customer care representative. “Customers are not just part of our business; they are the very reason we exist. Every decision we make and every investment we undertake must revolve around making our customers’ lives easier, more predictable, and more enjoyable. I am happy that through research and customer feedback, we are launching these innovative products today, which will play a vital role in enhancing their interactions with us,” said Kenya Power’s General Manager for Commercial Services and Sales, Eng. Rosemary Oduor. The company’s MyPower App has been redesigned with a modern interface, making it more user-friendly and incorporating additional features such as the ability to manage multiple accounts (for landlords), monitor monthly token usage, and access direct chat support via the WhatsApp channel. Additionally, the revamped app allows customers to purchase tokens, pay their electricity bills, self-read their postpaid meters, lodge billing complaints, and access scheduled power interruption notices. To enhance accessibility across Kenya’s diverse linguistic landscape, the company has added a Kiswahili menu to its USSD code *977#, enabling millions of customers to navigate services at their convenience. Through the USSD *977#, customers can also access digital receipts for all payments made to the company. The updated USSD platform further allows customers to assign unique names to their accounts for easy reference. “At the very heart of our mandate as a Board of Directors is customer experience. We are not stopping here. We are keenly listening to feedback from our customers to develop products and strategies that empower them to engage with us proactively, because we know that when customers are happy, they pay willingly, losses reduce, revenues grow, and our financial position strengthens,” said Kenya Power Board Director, Ruth Muiruri. In the last financial year, the company recorded growth in the number of customer requests on its self-service platforms, in tandem with its expanding customer base. Total customer interactions on the MyPower App increased by 22.12% during the financial year ending June 30, 2025, rising to 2.02 million compared to 1.65 million interactions recorded in the previous financial year. Similarly, customer requests via the company’s USSD code *977# increased by 13.58%, from 1.62 million to 1.84 million during the same period. The growing uptake of self-service platforms resulted in a reduction in the number of calls to the company’s contact centre by 900,000, dropping from 5.2 million to 4.3 million during the period under review. Beyond digital engagement, Kenya Power has also undertaken several physical customer outreach initiatives. In the financial year ended June 30, 2025, the company conducted 839 visits to large-power and SME customers, and 537 engagements with corporate clients—demonstrating its responsiveness to both mass-market and institutional customers. Additionally, the company held over 1,332 baraza-style campaigns nationwide targeting domestic customers, addressing various issues such as billing and electrical safety.     Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Kosmos Energy CEO Reaffirms Commitment To Partner Ghana And Senegal In Oil And Gas Development

Peter Adofo Asante
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Kosmos Energy CEO Reaffirms Commitment To Partner Ghana And Senegal In Oil And Gas Development
Kosmos Energy’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Andrew G. Inglis, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continue partnering with Ghana and Senegal to develop their oil and gas resources, in order to spur economic growth and improve the welfare of their citizens. He noted that both Ghana and Senegal have adopted gas-to-power policies, signaling their commitment to using natural gas as a primary fuel for electricity generation. Speaking during a panel discussion moderated by Mr. NJ Ayuk, Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC), at the just-ended African Energy Week in Cape Town, South Africa, Mr. Inglis emphasized that natural gas remains a cheaper fuel option for power generation compared to other energy sources. He expressed optimism that gas prices in Ghana would become even lower as Kosmos and its partners have decided to invest US$2 billion in the Jubilee Oil Field. Mr. Inglis commended Ghana’s impressive achievements in gas development, noting that the West African nation’s gas prices are even lower than those in Texas, USA—one of the world’s most advanced energy markets. The Kosmos CEO stated that the company’s future oil and gas development strategy would focus on cost-effectiveness to support the local economies of both Ghana and Senegal. “Kosmos can only win if the country wins and prioritizes the interests of its development partners before considering Kosmos’ profit,” Mr. Inglis assured. He further observed that massive investments in oil and gas production have a ripple effect on host nations’ infrastructure development—such as roads, schools, hospitals, and other social services—thereby boosting socioeconomic progress. It is for this reason, he said, that Kosmos Energy plans to invest US$2 billion in Ghana’s energy sector to maximize output from the Jubilee and TEN fields by extending their operating licenses to 2040. If the investment initiative proves successful, it will result in the drilling of 20 additional wells and a continuous reduction in routine gas flaring. Kosmos Energy also plans to enhance local economic opportunities through initiatives such as its Innovation Center Project, which supports environmental sustainability by funding reforestation and carbon offset projects in its partner countries. In Senegal, the company intends to focus on developing the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) field, with the aim of providing domestic energy to stimulate economic growth while reducing emissions by displacing heavy fuel oil. Kosmos Energy is also targeting investments in community development through support for entrepreneurship and local livelihood projects. Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, who was also on the panel, affirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with investors like Kosmos, emphasizing that Ghana seeks partnerships that ensure a sustainable win-win outcome.         Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Côte d’Ivoire: Eni Acquires New Offshore Exploration Block

Michael Creg Afful
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Côte d’Ivoire: Eni Acquires New Offshore Exploration Block
Italian oil and gas firm, Eni, has signed a petroleum exploration contract with the Ivorian Ministry of Mines, Petroleum and Energy for the CI-707 offshore block in Abidjan. The oil giant will conduct exploration activities for a maximum duration of nine years. According to the company, the exploration licence covers an area of approximately 2,926 square kilometres in the Ivorian sedimentary basin, at water depths ranging between 1,000 and 3,000 metres. The newly licensed area is geologically continuous with the nearby CI-205 block, where Eni announced the discovery of Calao in March 2024. This proximity presents a strategic opportunity for identifying similar geological structures, paving the way for potential synergistic developments in the future. With this new licence, Eni further consolidates its presence in Côte d’Ivoire, where it has been operating since 2017, with current equity production exceeding 62,000 barrels of oil and 75 million cubic feet of gas per day. Production is expected to rise to 150,000 barrels of oil and 200 million cubic feet of gas per day with the start of Phase 3. The company is now active in 10 offshore blocks in the country — CI-101, CI-205, CI-401, CI-501, CI-504, CI-526, CI-706, CI-708, CI-801, and CI-802 — in addition to the newly acquired CI-707 block.     Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

Vivo Energy Ghana Launches She’llFix Campaign To equip Female Drivers With Car Maintenance Skills

Michael Creg Afful
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Vivo Energy Ghana Launches She’llFix Campaign To equip Female Drivers With Car Maintenance Skills
In line with its core values, particularly safety and care, Vivo Energy Ghana, the exclusive distributors and marketers of Shell branded fuels and lubricants, continues to pioneer initiatives that create real impact for its people, customers and the communities it serves. Anchored on these values, Vivo Energy Ghana, has launched the maiden edition of She’llFix, an industry-first initiative designed to equip female drivers with essential car maintenance skills. The launch took place at the Shell Airport City service station in Accra and attracted female drivers, partners, industry stakeholders, and the media from all across the country. The launch of She’llFix featured a series of insightful presentations on car maintenance, road safety, and a session dubbed “the police and you”, which provided participants with experiential knowledge to improve their driving experiences. A major highlight of the launch event was the practical basic car maintenance demonstration, during which participants learned how to check oil levels, jump-start a car battery, and handle common roadside issues. One of the key takeaways was that the first step in car care is identifying and knowing the right products to use for your car. With Shell’s range of high-quality fuels and lubricants, participants were educated on how choosing the right products protects their engines, improves performance, and guarantees long-term vehicle health. Adding excitement to the day, a Spin the Wheel session gave participants the chance to win amazing prizes and goodies, including Shell cards, insurance discount coupons, branded She’llFix souvenirs, free makeovers, and more. In his keynote address, Mr. Christian Li, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana underscored the company’s commitment to championing diversity, inclusion, and empowerment. He highlighted that She’llFix is an extension of ShePower, the company’s flagship diversity and inclusion programme, and aligns with its vision of becoming the leading and most respected energy business in Africa.
Christian Li, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana Limited
“At Vivo Energy, we live by our core values of Safety, Excellence, Caring, Respect and Integrity. She’llFix brings these values to life by equipping women with the knowledge and skills to drive safely, confidently, and independently,” he said. “She’llFix is our way of showing you that we see you, we respect you, care for you and believe in your potential,” he further stated. The special Guest of Honour, Madam Esther Ambah Numaba Cobbah, President of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR) Ghana, commended Vivo Energy Ghana for this innovative initiative.
Madam Esther Ambah Numaba Cobbah
She remarked: “I sense that Vivo Energy is an organisation that seeks to showcase the capabilities of women in even technical areas in society, and I feel very excited to be part of this She’llFix initiative. ” I am confident it will successfully change the orientation of women regarding the management of vehicles and the preconceived ideas about women not being able to handle technology will once again be shattered.” The launch also featured an exhibition walkthrough, where participants could engage with car maintenance experts, partners, and product displays designed to enrich their overall experience. This initiative is a testament of Vivo Energy Ghana’s continued commitment to empower its customers and the communities it serves.         Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: GRIDCo To Shut Down Akosombo–Nkawkaw Transmission Line For Road Expansion Works

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: GRIDCo To Shut Down Akosombo–Nkawkaw Transmission Line For Road Expansion Works
Ghana’s power transmission company, GRIDCo, has announced that it will take the 161kV Akosombo–Nkawkaw transmission line out of service from Sunday, October 5, to Tuesday, October 14, 2025. According to the company, the temporary shutdown is to allow for the relocation of two transmission towers along the Kumasi–Accra highway to make way for ongoing road expansion works by the Ghana Highway Authority. In a statement issued on Friday, GRIDCo assured consumers that arrangements have been made to ensure an uninterrupted power supply during the period. The company added that its engineers will remain on standby to respond swiftly in the unlikely event of any incident. GRIDCo apologised for any inconvenience the exercise may cause the public and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining reliable service.           Source:https://energynewsafrica.com

Explosion Rocks Chevron El Segundo Refinery In Los Angeles

Michael Creg Afful
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Explosion Rocks Chevron El Segundo Refinery In Los Angeles
A massive fire erupted at Chevron’s El Segundo refinery in Los Angeles County following an explosion on Thursday night, multiple sources confirmed. According to the El Segundo Police Department, officers and firefighters responded to the refinery after receiving multiple reports of an explosion. Eyewitnesses said the blast felt like a small earthquake. Crews from the Los Angeles County Fire Department also joined the response. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services said it was coordinating with state and local authorities. The refinery, which has its own fire department, was able to mount an immediate response. El Segundo Mayor Chris Pimentel said no injuries had been reported. “We were able to respond with Chevron fire immediately; our station is about a quarter mile away from the gates of Chevron,” Pimentel told CBS News. “Obviously, we are very concerned, and there is a lot of investigative work to be done to determine what happened.” Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell said crews had contained the blaze to one section of the refinery. She emphasized that residents did not need to evacuate but advised them to remain indoors, while visitors were urged to avoid El Segundo for the time being. “It has been contained, and there is no cause for alarm for El Segundo or the surrounding areas,” Mitchell said. Mitchell also warned that the fire could affect air quality in El Segundo and neighboring cities. However, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) reported no elevated levels of toxins at the time, though conditions could change. “We’re currently not seeing any elevation of particulate matter or air toxins,” said Nahal Mogharabi, AQMD assistant deputy of communications. “That may change as the smoke settles this evening.” Mogharabi advised residents to close their doors and windows if they see or smell smoke. El Segundo Fire Department Division Chief Casey Snow confirmed there were no injuries and no hazards to nearby Manhattan Beach. He said gasoline and diesel were still burning but noted the fire was expected to either burn out naturally or be extinguished in due course. According to Chevron, the El Segundo refinery, built in 1911, processes about 276,000 barrels of crude oil per day and is the largest producing refinery on the U.S. West Coast. The refinery is located just a few miles south of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Airport officials said the fire had not affected operations, with no flights cancelled, delayed, or diverted in the immediate aftermath.   Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

Ghana: Floating Nuclear Power Plant Not Best Option For Ghana-Says Dr Yamoah

Peter Adofo Asante
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Ghana: Floating Nuclear Power Plant Not Best Option For Ghana-Says Dr Yamoah
Dr. Stephen Yamoah, Executive Director of Nuclear Power Ghana (NPG) – the body spearheading the establishment of the West African nation’s first nuclear power plant – has stated that floating nuclear power plant (FNPP) technology is not a suitable option for Ghana to consider. According to him, the opportunities associated with land-based nuclear power plants far outweigh those of the emerging floating nuclear power technology. Speaking on Thursday, October 2, 2025 during a Workshop for Media Professionals held at the BPA Heights Conference Hall in Accra, Dr. Yamoah was clear and direct: “Ghana without a nuclear power plant is far better off than Ghana with a floating reactor.” He explained that floating nuclear reactors are not a practical solution for the country, but rather a scheme pushed by those seeking to profit from selling electricity. “This whole proposal isn’t a real project. It’s about finding a market for selling power,” he said. Dr. Yamoah emphasized that the NPG remains fully committed to a nuclear program that genuinely benefits Ghana. “Our approach is focused on what’s best for the country,” he noted, adding that nuclear energy is about much more than electricity. “We need to be cautious because the nuclear agenda is bigger than just power generation.” He said the floating nuclear reactor technology is not a viable option, stressing that the NPG will never endorse such a proposal. Taking the opportunity to educate the public, Dr. Yamoah reminded participants that while Ghana’s nuclear power project aims to boost the country’s energy and economy, it is not a quick fix to electricity challenges. “No country uses nuclear energy to solve immediate power shortages,” he stressed. Instead, he explained, nuclear energy is designed to add long-term value to economic growth. “The role of nuclear energy should be as a foundation that goes beyond electricity. It should act as a catalyst to fuel industry, grow the economy, and add value to Ghana’s raw materials,” Dr. Yamoah said.       Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com

AEW: GOIL PLC Plans To Expand LPG Storage Capacity By Additional 12,000 Metric Tons Amid Growing Demand

Michael Creg Afful
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AEW: GOIL PLC Plans To Expand LPG Storage Capacity By Additional 12,000 Metric Tons Amid Growing Demand
GOIL PLC, Ghana’s largest indigenous oil and gas marketing company, is set to add 12,000 metric tons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage capacity within the next year, anchored by a $5 million investment, according to Group CEO and Managing Director Edward Abambire Bawa.

Speaking during a panel discussion on the topic “Monetising LPG to Enhance the Value of the Barrel in Africa’s Inland Markets” at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, Bawa said the company is spearheading a transformative expansion in LPG storage capacity to meet rising domestic demand and strengthen the country’s energy security.

Guided by the 2024 baseline consumption of 340 million kilograms of LPG sold nationally, the expansion seeks to bridge critical supply gaps, given that current storage capacity covers only two to three weeks of national demand.

“This storage limitation is both a challenge and a prime investment opportunity. Expanding infrastructure is fundamental to unlocking the full monetisation potential of LPG, benefiting producers, distributors, and end consumers alike,” Bawa noted.

GOIL’s latest initiatives reflect its broad commitment to infrastructure development. These include the rollout of multiple Autogas stations across five regions, including Accra and Kumasi, as well as the inauguration of a polymer-modified bitumen terminal in Tema to support related energy needs.

The company’s distribution network spans the entire country, servicing diverse consumer segments while driving sustainable growth and strategic investment partnerships. Recognising the challenges posed by limited LPG infrastructure—especially in rural areas—GOIL remains committed to expanding access through well-designed policies, increased investment, and innovative business models, including digital payment solutions that align with household cash flows.

Mohammed Amin Naderian, Head of Energy Economics & Forecasting at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), stressed LPG’s critical role in sustainable development:
“Our research at GECF highlights that LPG is a vital component within the broader narrative of gas’s role in sustainable development. Monetising gas is not just about producing more volumes, but about creating value along the entire supply chain—from production, storage, and transportation to distribution and ultimately the household consumer. In Africa particularly, market creation and capacity development are two sides of the same coin.”

He added: “We caution against mistaking policy as the solution itself. Policy acts as a catalyst to break poverty and energy poverty traps, accelerating monetisation through industrialisation and job creation for Africa’s youth. However, poorly designed or inconsistent policies risk causing market distortions or sudden collapses. Stable, transparent, and well-structured regulations are essential to reduce investment risks and provide predictability for investors and consumers.”

Sebastian Wagner, Managing Partner at DMWA Resources, drew lessons from Rwanda’s successes, stressing the importance of stable regulations, transparent investor incentives, and innovative business models—such as digital payments tailored to household cash flows. He highlighted LPG’s growing role in Africa’s energy transition:
“LPG often flies under the radar compared to LNG, but it is gaining momentum through well-structured investments and government partnerships aimed at reducing gas flaring and capturing value.”

Adding a South African perspective, Sesakho Magadla, CEO of PetroSA, said:
“LPG demand in South Africa is largely driven by population growth and rising energy needs, yet infrastructure development continues to lag behind. Consumption stands at about 350,000 metric tons annually, with peak demand reaching up to 550,000 metric tons in winter and summer.

“New investments in reverse flow pipelines and terminals in Durban are therefore crucial to meeting national demand. But it is only through close collaboration between the public and private sectors, with projects such as SANPC and Avedia Energy, that we can enhance LPG importation and distribution capacity, ensuring greater market stability and access.”

            Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com  

Senegal To Review Oil And Gas Codes Ahead Of MSGBC 2025

Michael Creg Afful
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Senegal To Review Oil And Gas Codes Ahead Of MSGBC 2025
Senegal’s Minister for Energy and Mines, Hon. Birame Souleye Diop, has announced that the country will review its oil and gas codes ahead of the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to take place in Dakar from December 9–10.

The Minister made the disclosure during a press briefing at the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference in Cape Town, South Africa on Thursday.

“Senegal is currently reviewing all of its codes, as well as developments in the electricity sector, in order to create a framework for industrialization,” Minister Diop stated.

According to him, the revisions will place emphasis on transparency, local content, and ensuring that revenues more directly benefit Senegalese citizens.

Meanwhile, Lamin Camara, Permanent Secretary at The Gambia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, revealed that the country is in the advanced stages of negotiations for well licenses.

“By the time we get to the MSGBC conference, we will announce that we have signed licenses for our oil wells,” Camara said, adding, “We are in the advanced stages of negotiation, which we expect to complete before the conference.”

        Source: https:// energynewsafrica.com 

AEW: Global Energy Giants Eye Gabon’s Upstream Opportunities

Michael Creg Afful
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AEW: Global Energy Giants Eye Gabon’s Upstream Opportunities
Gabon is attracting renewed interest from major international energy companies as it looks to expand oil and gas development across the country’s largely untapped reserves. Minister for Oil & Gas, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, disclosed this at the OPEC-Africa Roundtable during African Energy Week 2025. He, however, did not name the companies that have shown interest. “We have international partners who have expressed interest in coming to Gabon,” Nguema said, noting that 72% of the nation’s resources remain unexploited and that gas will be a key component in driving industrialization. He added that the country expects to formalize a major agreement in the coming month. The discussions highlighted Africa’s growing significance in the global energy landscape. OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais noted that the continent is both a rising consumer and a critical supplier. “Africa is not just on the supply side – it’s a rapidly growing consumer. The continent’s crude consumption is expected to reach 4.5 million barrels per day by 2050,” he said, stressing that inclusive energy strategies must account for both development and climate considerations. Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, underscored the scale of investment required. “We need approximately $540 billion annually in upstream oil and gas alone,” he said, adding that Africans must develop local solutions for sustainable growth. He highlighted gas as a clean fuel critical to expanding LPG availability and industrial development. Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons for the Republic of Congo, emphasized the role of investment in Congo’s production expansion. “In five years, we will double production from around 260,000 to 500,000 barrels per day,” he said, while highlighting continued collaboration with OPEC to maintain market stability. “More production coming from OPEC members is good news… if OPEC members are bringing more investment, it’s the best way to stabilize markets.” The session also explored Africa’s energy security and the potential for local solutions. Al Ghais noted OPEC-backed studies on LPG, clean hydrogen, and the cost of renewables, emphasizing the need for country-specific approaches. “It is really unjust to deny developing regions the right to develop and use their energy resources. We need a country-by-country approach to energy security, affordability, and tackling climate change,” he said.     Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

US: Department Of Energy Cancels Another $7.6 Billion In Energy Project Funding

Michael Creg Afful
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US: Department Of Energy Cancels Another $7.6 Billion In Energy Project Funding
The U.S. Department of Energy has canceled $7.6 billion in funding for previously approved energy projects on the grounds that they would not produce any palpable benefits for Americans. The canceled projects are 223 in total, approved by various agencies from the Department of Energy during the previous administration. Per this one, however, “these projects did not adequately advance the nation’s energy needs, were not economically viable, and would not provide a positive return on investment of taxpayer dollars.” “On day one, the Energy Department began the critical task of reviewing billions of dollars in financial awards, many rushed through in the final months of the Biden administration with inadequate documentation by any reasonable business standard,” Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. The Department of Energy reported that 26% of all the projects canceled were awarded between Election Day, in November 2024, and Inauguration Day, in January this year. “President Trump promised to protect taxpayer dollars and expand America’s supply of affordable, reliable, and secure energy. Today’s cancellations deliver on that commitment. Rest assured, the Energy Department will continue reviewing awards to ensure that every dollar works for the American people,” Wright added. This is not the first project cancellation since the new administration took over. Earlier this year, the DoE canceled another 24 energy projects worth over $3.7 billion in government funding. The list, by the way, included a project proposed by Exxon for the production of low-carbon hydrogen at a petrochemicals facility. Meanwhile, the government shutdown that began yesterday has paused approvals for new wind and solar projects, although oil and gas leases are still on schedule, according to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. The agency said it would use carryover funds to maintain work on “priority conventional energy projects,” including offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico and Alaska, even as more than 70% of its staff are furloughed.   Source: Oilprice.com

Ghana: NEDCo Records 10% Growth In Revenue Collection In Tamale

Michael Creg Afful
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Ghana: NEDCo Records 10% Growth In Revenue Collection In Tamale
The Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) has announced a 10-percentage-point improvement in its revenue collection performance in Tamale, reducing distribution losses from 57% in January 2025 to 47% as of September 2025. According to management, this progress follows intensified revenue mobilization efforts and growing cooperation from the public. Speaking on the development, NEDCo’s Managing Director, Ing. Yamoah, described the results as an encouraging milestone but cautioned that the company still has a long way to go in meeting its overall targets. “This achievement is encouraging, but we are still far from our goal. We need even greater collaboration from residents and traditional leaders to improve revenue collection and ensure reliable power supply across our operational zones,” he stated. He explained that improved revenue generation is crucial for sustaining operations. “Revenue generation is very critical because it allows us to pay power producers and also invest in infrastructure to improve power supply,” Ing. Yamoah said. Despite the gains, the MD acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly illegal electricity connections in some communities. He noted that such practices not only deprive the company of much-needed funds but also overload transformers, resulting in frequent breakdowns. “Illegal connections cause transformers to overload, which often leads to them blowing up. This disrupts power supply, inconveniences entire communities, and increases maintenance costs. We are appealing to those involved in such practices to stop immediately—not just because it’s illegal, but because it hurts all of us,” he added. To consolidate recent progress, NEDCo plans to roll out a community engagement programme in collaboration with traditional authorities, local leaders, and residents. The initiative will focus on raising awareness about the economic and social consequences of illegal connections and non-payment of electricity bills. The company reiterated its commitment to improving service delivery but emphasized that long-term progress will depend on customer compliance, timely payment of bills, and collective efforts to tackle power theft.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com

AEW: Angola’s ETU Energias Secures Financing For Block 17/06 Development

Michael Creg Afful
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AEW: Angola’s ETU Energias Secures Financing For Block 17/06 Development
ETU Energias, Angola’s largest private energy company, has announced the successful signing and closure of a structured disbursement agreement to finance its capital expenditure and development activities for its 7.5% participating interest in Block 17/06. The announcement was made during the 2025 edition of Africa Energy Week (AEW) in Cape Town, highlighting ETU Energias’ continued growth momentum and ability to secure competitive financing in support of strategic energy investments. Located approximately 150 kilometers off the Angolan coast, the Begonia development is Angola’s first inter-block project, integrating production facilities across Block 17 and Block 17/06 to unlock efficiencies and optimize resource utilization. With an expected total output of 30,000 barrels per day, Begonia represents a significant milestone in deep offshore collaboration and innovation. The financing agreement ensures ETU Energias’ full participation in this high-impact development, reinforcing the company’s financial strength, operational credibility, and long-term commitment to Angola’s energy sector. The deal was arranged by a financial consortium including MCB (Mauritius Commercial Bank), acting as lead arranger, lender, and transaction bank, alongside TOTSA (TotalEnergies Trading SA). “This project sets a benchmark for future inter-block developments in Angola. It illustrates the power of strategic partnerships, innovative financing, and shared infrastructure in delivering value to stakeholders and advancing national energy goals,” said Edson R. dos Santos, CEO of ETU Energias. “This agreement reflects our growing strength as an independent company and our unwavering commitment to Angola’s energy future.” ETU Energias joins a robust and experienced consortium led by TotalEnergies (30%, operator), alongside Sonangol E&P (30%), SSI (27.5%), and Falcon Oil (5%). Together, the partners bring complementary expertise and resources to execute this offshore development with efficiency, safety, and sustainability at its core. “By supporting innovative and collaborative projects, we not only enhance national energy security, but also help foster new models of partnership that can be replicated across the region,” added dos Santos. With first oil already achieved, ETU Energias remains fully committed to supporting ongoing operations and the future expansion of Block 17/06. The block also holds considerable gas potential, presenting a strategic opportunity for Angola’s energy diversification and long-term sustainability. “Our financial commitment extends beyond oil production. We’re investing in the full hydrocarbon potential of Block 17/06, including natural gas resources vital to Angola’s energy future,” dos Santos emphasized.       Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
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