Angola’s First Oil Refinery Slated For Commissioning In September 2025
Angola’s first oil refinery after independence, the Cabinda Refinery, is set to be officially commissioned in September 2025, President of the Republic, João Lourenço, has revealed.
The President was speaking in Benguela during the weekend.
The construction of the refinery started around 2020, with an initial capacity to produce 30,000 barrels of oil per day.
There are plans to scale up production from 30,000 to 60,000 barrels of oil per day.
The refinery was financed at a cost of $473 million, with $138 million in equity provided by the project sponsors, while a $335 million facility was led by the Africa Finance Corporation, the African Export-Import Bank, and a consortium of international and local financial institutions.
The project aims to reduce Angola’s dependence on the import of refined petroleum fuels.
The project is part of a strategy of the Angolan Executive to reduce Angola’s dependence on importing oil derivatives, optimizing refinement in the country.
The Cabinda refinery is a joint venture between the UK-based asset management company Gemcorp and Angola’s national oil company, Sonangol.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: GOIL PLC Pays Tribute To Fallen Ghanaian Heroes
GOIL PLC, Ghana’s largest indigenous petroleum downstream player, is mourning the loss of eight distinguished Ghanaians who tragically perished in a helicopter crash last Wednesday.
The victims included prominent figures such as Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, along with Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna, NDC Vice-Chairman Samuel Sarpong, former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, and three dedicated military officers: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
In a heartfelt statement, GOIL PLC expressed its deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, describing the loss as a “profound tragedy” that has touched the hearts of all Ghanaians.
The statement read: “These were dedicated men of purpose and distinction, whose contributions to national development, peace, and security were self-evident in their leadership. Their sudden loss is a profound tragedy that has touched GOIL PLC and every Ghanaian.”
GOIL PLC stands in solidarity with the Government of Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation during this period of national mourning, praying for comfort and strength for the bereaved families and institutions affected by the tragic loss.
As the nation grieves, GOIL PLC joins in celebrating the legacy of service, sacrifice, and patriotism left behind by these fallen heroes. “May their souls rest in perfect peace,” the company concluded.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Ghana Energy Awards Postpones Media Launch And Opening Of Nominations In Honour Of Fallen Statesmen And Soldiers
The Energy Media Group, organizers of the prestigious Ghana Energy Awards, has postponed the media launch and opening of nominations for the 9th Ghana Energy Awards, originally scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
This decision follows the helicopter crash on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, which claimed the lives of eight gallant Ghanaians, including the Defence and Environment Ministers and army officers.
The entire nation is mourning the untimely demise of these prominent personalities.
President John Dramani Mahama announced a three-day national mourning period starting Thursday.
In a statement issued by Ing. Henry Teinor, Event Director, and Mr. Kwame Jantuah Esq., Chairman of the Awarding Panel, they expressed solidarity with the bereaved families and the nation.
“In the spirit of national unity and out of deep respect for the precious lives lost, we believe it is essential to stand together as a country to honour their memory.”
The Ghana Energy Awards fully supports the Government’s declaration of a three-day National Mourning period and the preparations for the inter-denominational state funeral for the eight heroes at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, 2025.
Therefore, the 9th Ghana Energy Awards Media Launch and Opening of Nominations has been postponed until further notice.
The group called on all partners and stakeholders to join in paying tribute to these remarkable individuals whose service and sacrifice have left an indelible mark on the nation.
“May their souls rest in perfect peace, and may their legacy continue to inspire us all.”
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Kenya Power’s Self-Service Platforms Record Over 22% Growth As Customers Embrace Convenience
Kenya Power recorded growth in customer requests on its self-service platforms during the last financial year, in tandem with a growing customer base.
Total customer interactions on the MyPower App increased by 22.12% during the financial year ended June 30, 2025, to 2.02 million, compared to 1.65 million interactions recorded during the previous financial year.
Similarly, customer requests on the company’s USSD Code *977# increased by 13.58% from 1.62 million to 1.84 million during the period under review.
Bill query stood out as the most sought service on the self-service platforms, registering 304,198 new requests and bringing the total number of bill query requests to 1.7 million.
The bill simulator attracted 21,967 new requests, with the total number of requests standing at 99,709 by the end of the financial year.
Managing Director and CEO of Kenya Power, Engr. Dr. Joseph Biror, said, “One of our strategic growth pillars is customer satisfaction. We’ve identified ways to enhance service delivery through technology. Our self-service platforms offer customers convenience and are a step toward seamless service delivery.”
“The bill simulator empowers customers to understand their power bill and plan accordingly. Our business focuses on powering livelihoods to prosperity, so it’s essential for customers to understand and plan for their electricity consumption,” Dr. Biror added.
He also highlighted other important services on the self-service platforms, including the self-reading option for accurate billing and the Jua for Sure service to authenticate Kenya Power staff.
New registrations for the self-service platforms increased by 10,440 to 41,265, while requests to confirm the identity of Kenya Power staff rose by 6,887 to 33,422.
Using the self-service platforms, Kenya Power customers can access various services, including reporting power outages, purchasing electricity tokens, tracking application status for new connections, and more.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: PURC’s Efforts Yield Gh¢1.5 Million Recovery For ECG, NEDCo & GWL
Ghana’s Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has recovered over Gh¢1.5 million from customers found to have engaged in illegal connections or bill payment defaults to three utility companies.
The utilities, namely Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo), and Ghana Water Limited, recovered Gh¢511,921.88, Gh¢925,508.67, and Gh¢127,939.02, respectively, through PURC’s intervention.
This was contained in a press release issued by the Commission about its performance for the first half of 2025.
The release also showed that two utilities, ECG and GWL, paid combined compensation of Gh¢955,904.45. ECG contributed Gh¢69,794.48, while GWL contributed Gh¢886,109.97.
Between January and June 2025, the commission received 8,162 complaints, resolving 7,857 (96.26%). The remaining 305 complaints (3.74%) are under investigation due to their technical nature.
The highest number of complaints (4,228) were lodged against ECG, with 4,044 (95.65%) resolved. NEDCo received 3,152 complaints, resolving 3,064 (97.21%). GWL received 746 complaints, resolving 720 (96.51%).
The Commission also resolved 29 out of 36 complaints lodged by utilities against consumers, representing an 80.56% resolution rate.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
The Gambia To Host ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum 2025 In September
The ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), in collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy, and Mines of The Gambia, has announced the 10th edition of the ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum, scheduled for September 18-19, 2025.
This landmark event, themed “Accelerating Sustainable Energy Infrastructure Solutions for Growth in the ECOWAS Region,” will take place at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia.
The event is under the esteemed patronage of Honorable Nani Juwara, Minister of Petroleum, Energy, and Mines of The Gambia.
As the premier platform for advancing sustainable energy in West Africa, ESEF 2025 will bring together key stakeholders to foster regional cooperation and investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
For a decade, ESEF has served as a strategic platform for policy dialogue, knowledge sharing, and investment mobilization, attracting over 500 participants annually.
The Forum convenes ministers, regional and international organization leaders, financial institutions, private sector executives, researchers, students, and civil society actors from across the energy, climate, and development sectors.
ESEF 2025 reaffirms its commitment to strengthening institutional, policy, and regulatory frameworks to unlock the region’s vast sustainable energy potential and accelerate the ECOWAS energy transition.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Libya: ExxonMobil Signs MoU With NOC To Conduct Studies On Four Offshore Blocks
American oil and gas supermajor ExxonMobil has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Libyan National Oil Corporation (NOC) to undertake a detailed technical study of four offshore blocks located near the northwest coast and the Sirte Basin of Libya.
This MoU establishes a geological and geophysical study to identify hydrocarbon resources in these blocks.
It also paves the way for cooperation and the resumption of the partnership between NOC and ExxonMobil, aiming to restart activities in Libya after a decade-long hiatus.
In a speech at the signing ceremony, the Chairman of the NOC Board of Directors Masoud Suleman emphasized the corporation’s commitment to expanding partnerships with major American energy companies, particularly ExxonMobil.
He expressed confidence in the potential for positive outcomes based on their collaboration history.
He noted that contract terms are now more favorable than in the past, reflecting global energy sector changes, and that conditions are ideal for achieving success.
Mr Suleman praised Libyan expertise and technical personnel’s value in exploration, development, and drilling.
It’s worth noting that ExxonMobil was one of the companies that expressed interest in participating in NOC’s public bidding round for exploration in Libya, which includes 22 offshore and onshore blocks available for investment.
ExxonMobil’s willingness to engage in exploration operations in Libya has been described as a strategic move, aligned with the increasing trend of international oil companies returning to the country.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
He expressed confidence in the potential for positive outcomes based on their collaboration history.
He noted that contract terms are now more favorable than in the past, reflecting global energy sector changes, and that conditions are ideal for achieving success.
Mr Suleman praised Libyan expertise and technical personnel’s value in exploration, development, and drilling.
It’s worth noting that ExxonMobil was one of the companies that expressed interest in participating in NOC’s public bidding round for exploration in Libya, which includes 22 offshore and onshore blocks available for investment.
ExxonMobil’s willingness to engage in exploration operations in Libya has been described as a strategic move, aligned with the increasing trend of international oil companies returning to the country.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Zimbabwe: Afreximbank Provides €3.80M Funding For 1-GW Floating Solar Project Studies
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has signed a heads of terms agreement to provide $4.4 million (€3.80m) to support a 1-GW hybrid floating solar project on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe. The agreement was signed during the 32nd Annual Meetings of Afreximbank (AAM2025).
The financing facility will be extended to Green Hybrid Power Private Limited to fund bankability and feasibility studies for the project and the procurement of transaction advisers. It’s expected to unlock an estimated $350 million in investment.
The plan is to build the solar park in two phases, starting with the installation of 500 MW of power-generating capacity.
The pilot stage will supply electricity to the Intensive Energy Users Group, a consortium of large industrial and mining companies, under a 20-year take-or-pay power purchase agreement (PPA).
It was one of four project preparation deals inked at the event, which are collectively expected to catalyze around $1 billion in investments.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
The pilot stage will supply electricity to the Intensive Energy Users Group, a consortium of large industrial and mining companies, under a 20-year take-or-pay power purchase agreement (PPA).
It was one of four project preparation deals inked at the event, which are collectively expected to catalyze around $1 billion in investments.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com 10th Edition Of The ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum (ESEF 2025)
Banjul, The Gambia: The ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (ECREEE), in collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines of The Gambia, is pleased to announce the 10th edition of the ECOWAS Sustainable Energy Forum (ESEF 2025), under the theme:
“Accelerating Sustainable Energy Infrastructure Solutions for Growth in the ECOWAS Region.”
This landmark event will take place from 18th – 19th September 2025 at Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center in Banjul, The Gambia, under the esteemed patronage of Honorable Nani Juwara, Minister of Petroleum, Energy and Mines of The Gambia.
As the premier platform for advancing sustainable energy in West Africa, ESEF 2025 will bring together key stakeholders to foster regional cooperation and investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
For a decade, ESEF has served as a strategic platform for policy dialogue, knowledge sharing, and investment mobilization, attracting over 500 participants annually. The Forum convenes ministers, regional and international organization leaders, financial institutions, private sector executives, researchers, students, and civil society actors from across the energy, climate, and development sectors.
ESEF 2025 reaffirms its commitment to strengthening institutional, policy, and regulatory frameworks to unlock the region’s vast sustainable energy potential and accelerate the ECOWAS energy transition.
18th – 19th September, 2025 | Banjul, The Gambia
Ghana: Engen Ghana Ltd. Rebrands As Misa Energy Ghana Ltd.
Engen Ghana Ltd., a leading player in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector, has rebranded as Misa Energy Ghana Ltd., signifying a new corporate brand identity.
This evolution signals the company’s renewed commitment to innovation, customer focus, and long-term growth. The rebranding follows the 2019 acquisition of Engen Ghana by Mocoh Ghana Ltd. It reflects a bold strategic vision to build a distinctly African energy brand, rooted in Ghanaian leadership and global standards.
With over 27 years of trusted service in the Ghanaian market, Engen Ghana’s transition to MISA Energy represents both a continuation of that legacy and a dynamic shift toward the future.
In a statement issued after the official unveiling of the new corporate brand, Chief Executive Officer Mr. Brent Nartey stated: “Our new brand represents who we are becoming – more innovative, more customer-focused, and more aligned with the future we’re building together. It is a promise to our customers to fuel their dreams and put them first. MISA Energy is a symbol of the trust we’ve earned over the years and the ambition that drives us forward.”
The rebrand includes a new logo, refreshed retail visual identity, and updated corporate Vision, Mission, and Values. It also reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering reliable energy solutions that empower communities and fuel economic growth in Ghana and beyond.
According to him, the company will roll out the new identity across its national retail network over the next 12 months. He assured all stakeholders that the company’s core principles and commitment to service excellence, which have defined its operations and success, remain unchanged.
“The new identity positions the company to pursue greater ambitions and respond more effectively to emerging opportunities in Ghana’s dynamic energy sector,” he said.
In a solidarity message, Dr. Riverson Oppong, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), praised the transformation, noting: “A renewed identity is a chance to re-center your purpose, re-energize your company, and reconnect with the communities you serve. It is how you stay relevant. It is how you stay trusted. And most importantly, it is how you leave a legacy.”
Dr. Oppong also commended the visionary leadership of Mr. Brent Nartey, CEO of MISA Energy Ghana Ltd., acknowledging his instrumental role in the company’s evolution and his contributions to the Chamber through years of impactful industry leadership.
“As the energy sector continues to evolve, it’s truly inspiring to see companies positioning themselves to meet the needs of today and the opportunities of tomorrow,” he concluded.
Nigeria: Garba Ramat Named NERC Boss, Two Others As Commissioners
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), according to a statement from the presidency.
Ramat, 39, is an electrical engineer with a PhD in Strategic Management. He will assume office in an acting capacity pending confirmation by the Senate, as stated by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.
“To avoid a leadership vacuum in the critical regulatory agency, the President directed that Engr. Ramat assume office in an acting capacity pending his screening by the Senate, as stipulated by law.”
President Tinubu also nominated two other officials to serve as commissioners of the regulatory body: Mr. Abubakar Yusuf, Commissioner of Consumer Affairs, and Dr. Fouad Olayinka Animashun, Commissioner of Finance and Management Services. All nominations are subject to Senate confirmation.
President Tinubu charged the appointees to utilize their expertise “to discharge their functions and work assiduously to advance the administration’s power sector vision.”
Ramat, a licensed electrical engineer, holds a PhD in Strategic Management from Lincoln University, a Master’s in Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering from Jodhpur National University, India, and a B.Eng in Electrical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano.
His notable achievements include deploying smart grid and IoT solutions that reduced infrastructure costs by 40% and pioneering blockchain-based e-governance in Kano, tripling local government revenue.
He previously served as the Kano State Representative on the NERC Consumer Forum (2019-2020) and has led institutional reforms across public and private sectors.
As the founder and CEO of AG Ramat Global Link and AG Ramat Global Apex, he has driven ventures in engineering consulting and technology services.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: NEDCo Staff Resume Field Services In Tamale; Restore Power Supply To Areas Experiencing Outages
Staff of the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) have resumed field services in the Tamale metropolis and its environs, restoring power supply in areas that were experiencing power outages.
This follows a visit by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, to Tamale on Tuesday, where he held constructive discussions with key figures, including NEDCo Management, the Mayor of Tamale, the Senior Staff Association and Union of NEDCo and VRA, the Head of National Security for the Northern Region, and the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Mahama Abukari Gariba II.
The Minister’s visit follows an unprovoked attack on NEDCo staff by youth in Tamale, which forced NEDCo to suspend field services in the Tamale metropolis and other areas.
A statement issued by Richmond Rockson Esq., Spokesperson for the Energy Ministry, commended all parties involved for their cooperation in resolving the concerns of both workers and the chiefs.
The Ministry has called on residents of Tamale and its environs to refrain from any acts of aggression towards NEDCo and VRA staff as they carry out their lawful duties in the township.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to continuous engagement with all stakeholders to prevent future disruptions and ensure a reliable power supply for all Ghanaians.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Fire Guts Egbin Power Station
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported a fire incident at Egbin Power Plc. The incident, which occurred at about 6:30 am on August 5, 2025, affected TCN’s 150MVA power transformer at the Egbin Transmission Substation.
A statement issued by TCN revealed that the fire originated from one of the power station’s service transformers owned by Egbin Power Plc, which is directly connected to the 33kV side of one of TCN’s power transformers – a 150MVA 330/132/33kV Inter-Bus Transformer II.
TCN’s investigation traced the cause of the fire to a faulty 33kV instrument transformer (CT/VT) installed by Egbin Power Plc, which was engulfed by fire. This ultimately led to damage to a 150MVA power transformer belonging to TCN, causing oil leakage due to a tear in its main tank.
As a result, TCN has temporarily reduced bulk power supply to Ikorodu and Odogunyan 132/33kV transmission substations, which supply IKEDC and IBEDC for some parts of their franchise areas, as well as Sagamu Line 1, Sagamu Line 2, and Maryland Line 2 on the 132kV network within Lagos State.
The transmission company has notified IKEDC and EKEDC to assist in load management within their franchise areas. TCN is making urgent arrangements to source a replacement transformer.
“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this is causing the two distribution companies and electricity customers in the affected areas and pledge to work hard to ensure full restoration of bulk supply to the substations in the shortest possible time.”
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Transport Operators Suspend Planned 20% Fares Increment
Transport Operators in the Republic of Ghana have suspended a planned 20% increase in fares which was expected to take effect on Friday, August 8, 2025.
The decision to suspend it follows an emergency meeting on Wednesday between transport operators and the Ministry of Transport, citing lack of broader consultation before the announcement of the proposed increase.
A statement issued by Mr Emmanuel Nii Ankrah, National Vice Chairman, and Emmanuel Ohene-Yeboah, General Secretary of Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council, stated that they had agreed to maintain current transport fares.
Many Ghanaians questioned the planned quantum jump in transport fares when fuel prices have been a bit lower in recent times compared to same period last year.
The operators said they had not experienced a corresponding reduction in the cost of spare parts and other goods and services following an earlier 15% fare reduction implemented on May 21, 2025.
They further argued that a newly introduced GH¢1.00 per litre fuel levy has pushed fuel prices up by approximately 8%, directly impacting operational costs for drivers and transport companies.
Lastly, they mentioned worsening road conditions across the country, resulting in increased maintenance costs, further compounding the financial strain on operators.
The 20% increase will apply to all categories of public transport, including shared taxis, intra-city “trotro” services, long-distance intercity transport, and haulage.
“All commercial transport operators and companies are to comply with the new fares and visibly post them at their loading terminals,” the Council said.
The Council appealed to commuters, transport operators, and the general public to cooperate for the smooth implementation of the revised fares.
Reacting to the issue, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers Ghana (COPEC) questioned the matrices that informed any such drastic upward reviews of public transport fares.
The Executive Director of COPEC, Mr Duncan Amoah, rejected the argument by the transporters that the recent introduction of GH¢1 levy on a litre of petroleum products had pushed fuel prices upwards.
“The overall effect of the new One Ghana levy is still not sufficient to wipe out the sustained reductions recorded at the pumps over the past couple of months.
“For the avoidance of doubt, fuel prices which used to sell for around GH¢15/litre as of January 2025, when it declined to around GH¢11 and GH¢12/litre saw a section of drivers who were magnanimous in reducing transport fares by some 15%, though a cross section of other driver unions did not reduce their fares and had to be literally chased by the local assemblies.
“On the balance of odds or numbers, the pricing levels as of today are still not anywhere near the January prices…”
Touching on government attempts to reintroduce the road toll systems, Mr Amoah noted that although the tolls system would have some monetary impact on them, it is justification for any increment in transport fares as the effects would not only be felt by the already suffering masses but would further diffuse genuine outcry by the people for the cost of goods and services to be reduced across all sectors to bring some relief.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com