The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has announced that government is taking steps to construct a new Offshore Mooring Facility to tackle long-standing infrastructure bottlenecks in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector.
Speaking during a visit to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) on Wednesday, October 15, Dr. Jinapor said the project is designed to improve efficiency in fuel importation and distribution while reducing costs linked to delays and logistical challenges.
“This project is expected to significantly ease the infrastructure burden, address existing bottlenecks, and cut down on laycan-related costs and delays,” he stated.
Addressing Operational Inefficiencies
The Minister acknowledged that the petroleum downstream sector has for years grappled with operational issues — particularly those involving laycan allocation and demurrage charges resulting from discharge delays.
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“Challenges such as laycan allocation and delays in discharge leading to demurrage have become recurring problems, undermining efficiency in fuel importation and distribution,” Dr. Jinapor explained.
While commending the Laycan Allocation Committee for improving coordination within the sector, the Minister emphasized the need for a long-term structural solution.
“Even though the Laycan Allocation Committee has brought some level of efficiency, as a government, we are determined to find a permanent fix to the problem,” he said.
A “Game Changer” for the Downstream Sector
Dr. Jinapor assured that the proposed offshore facility would serve as a “game changer” for Ghana’s petroleum downstream operations once completed.
“The new offshore mooring facility will enhance the resilience and competitiveness of the entire downstream supply chain,” he added.
The initiative aligns with government’s broader agenda to modernize energy infrastructure and ensure sustainable, cost-effective fuel supply across the country.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem