Diesel over the past year has been the engine of Ghana’s energy sector, fueling the trucks that move goods across the country and powering the machines that keep industries running.
Between June 2023 and June 2024, diesel consistently accounted for nearly 40% of the country’s total petroleum consumption, showing its role as the backbone of economic activity.
According to data sourced from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), diesel demand climbed steadily, starting from 135,869 metric tonnes in June 2023 and peaking at over 193,223 metric tonnes in May 2024.
Data sourced from GSS
This surge paints a clear picture of an economy accelerating after a seasonal lull, with growing industrial activity and transport demands driving the trend.
But the story does not end there. Kerosene, once a household staple for lighting and cooking, showed a starkly different trend. Consumption began at 420.76 metric tonnes in June 2023, experienced slight fluctuations, and dropped to zero in June 2024.
This shift hints at an ongoing energy transition, with households and businesses increasingly opting for modern alternatives like LPG and electricity. However, for rural areas still dependent on kerosene, these trends raise critical questions about energy access and affordability.
Total petroleum consumption mirrored Ghana’s economic cycles, showing notable fluctuations. In December 2023, consumption dipped to 396,804.59 metric tonnes, reflecting the festive season slowdown when industries and businesses typically scale back operations.
By contrast, May 2024 recorded the highest total petroleum consumption at 458,405.85 metric tonnes, as businesses ramped up production to meet mid-year demands.
These numbers offer a glimpse into how the county’s fuel needs align with its economic rhythm, reflecting the push-and-pull of industrial demands, transportation needs, and shifting household preferences.
