Ghana is set to undergo a major transformation in its energy sector with the planned construction of three large-scale oil refineries, five petrochemical plants, and ten tank farms, as part of a bold strategy to maximize the country’s hydrocarbon resources and position it as a regional energy hub.
The announcement was made by Deputy Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Richard Gyan-Mensah, at the 2025 Invest in African Energies: Accra Investor Briefing. Representing Energy Minister John Jinapor, Gyan-Mensah told industry stakeholders and potential investors that the initiative is a key component of government’s long-term vision for energy security, value addition, and industrialization.
“A 20,000-acre site in Jomoro, Western Region, has already been secured for this ambitious infrastructure rollout,” he said, adding that the government is committed to developing critical enabling infrastructure roads, water, and electricity to facilitate rapid project implementation.
Each of the proposed refineries is expected to process a minimum of 300,000 barrels of oil per stream day (bpsd), representing a significant leap from Ghana’s current refining capacity, which includes the underperforming 45,000 bpsd Tema Oil Refinery and the Sentuo Refinery
Government says these projects will not only help reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported petroleum products but also unlock the full economic potential of its oil and gas reserves through domestic value addition.
“The long-term goal is to ensure energy affordability and security by integrating storage, transportation, and processing capabilities across the value chain,” Gyan-Mensah noted.
To streamline project execution and regulatory oversight, the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation has been tasked with coordinating permitting and investor engagement. Additionally, the government is offering incentives such as import duty waivers for operations in designated Free Zones, signalling a strong push to attract foreign capital and technology.
The plan also includes the construction of a 150 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) gas processing plant to meet rising demand across power generation, cement, fertiliser, and petrochemicals sectors.
Despite Ghana’s promising petroleum potential, the sector has faced significant challenges, including inefficiencies and operational hurdles at existing facilities. However, the new infrastructure blueprint is being positioned as a fresh start one that aligns with upstream exploration efforts and supports Ghana’s broader ambition to become a leading player in Africa’s energy landscape.
Policy reforms are already underway to simplify licensing processes. Under updated regulations, petroleum contractors can now explore additional prospects within their contract areas without the need for renegotiation an approach designed to boost exploration and accelerate project timelines.
“The reforms are aimed at de-risking investment and allowing contractors to maximise the full value of their blocks,” said Gyan-Mensah.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, praised Ghana’s renewed energy ambition.
“Ghana is back. Ready for investment, ready for energy. No country is more prepared for strategic projects in the coming years,” he declared.
Ayuk also reinforced the importance of Africa using its natural resources to drive inclusive development. “Other countries have built their futures on fossil fuels. Africa should be no different we must use every drop of our hydrocarbons to improve the lives of our people.”
Echoing this, Gyan-Mensah extended a direct invitation to private investors “Ghana is open for business. We are ready to partner with you to unlock this nation’s vast energy potential for mutual benefit.”
With this expansive energy infrastructure roadmap, Ghana is positioning itself not only as an emerging energy hub in West Africa but also as a magnet for strategic investments in the evolving global energy landscape.
