Accra, Ghana – The Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, has reiterated the government’s dedication to ensuring the smooth implementation of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM). His assurance comes amid ongoing challenges in the LPG distribution sector, which the NPA is actively working to resolve.
During an official tour of LPG bottling plants owned by Goil, New Gas, and Blue Ocean in the Tema enclave, Mr. Tameklo engaged with industry stakeholders to assess the new LPG distribution framework. Accompanied by his deputies, Dr. Sheila Addo and Dr. Dramani Bukari, he reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment while maintaining stringent safety standards.
Addressing Industry Challenges
Mr. Tameklo acknowledged concerns raised by bottling plant operators regarding regulatory issues and competition from unlicensed LPG distributors. He emphasized that the NPA remains steadfast in enforcing safety protocols, particularly addressing the rise of unauthorized door-to-door LPG delivery services, which pose significant safety risks.
“The NPA is pro-business in our regulatory role, ensuring that companies operating within legal frameworks thrive while upholding public safety,” he stated.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
The NPA boss assured LPG stakeholders that the authority would take decisive action against illegal LPG distributors, reinforcing its mandate to protect both consumers and legitimate businesses.
In alignment with Ghana’s Energy Transition Agenda, CRM aims to enhance LPG accessibility while ensuring consumer safety. The model introduces centralized bottling plants that distribute filled cylinders through licensed vendors, replacing traditional refilling stations that have posed safety hazards in the past.
Government’s Commitment to CRM Implementation
Mr. Tameklo emphasized that the government remains committed to addressing bottlenecks hindering CRM’s full-scale implementation. He reiterated that collaboration with licensed industry players is crucial to achieving a seamless transition.
“Our goal is to create an efficient and safe LPG distribution system. We will continue engaging stakeholders to refine policies and ensure that CRM implementation benefits all Ghanaians,” he added.
Industry Collaboration for Growth
Stakeholders within the LPG distribution chain welcomed the NPA’s proactive stance. Industry leaders expressed optimism that addressing regulatory loopholes and cracking down on unauthorized distributors would create a level playing field for compliant businesses.
“We appreciate the NPA’s engagement and look forward to seeing these commitments translate into tangible actions that enhance operational efficiency,” an industry representative stated.
The NPA continues to strengthen regulations to ensure safety, compliance, and business growth within Ghana’s petroleum downstream sector. As CRM gains traction, stakeholders can expect continuous government support and policy refinement to make LPG distribution more efficient and consumer-friendly.
For more updates on Ghana’s energy sector, visit News Xpress Online.
