NPA to deploy automated dispensers to implement 24-hour economy

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) is exploring various aspects of the downstream petroleum value chain, alongside a comprehensive implementation plan to facilitate the rollout of a 24-hour economy within the industry.
The Chief Executive of the NPA, Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, Esq., said the initial phase might include the deployment of automated dispensers at selected petroleum retail outlets, as well as measures to ensure the continuous operation of bulk storage facilities and depots, among other initiatives.
He added that the planned implementation of a 24-hour economy in the downstream petroleum sector aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision of running a 24-hour economy to grow the economy and create more jobs.

Keynote at downstream dialogue 2025
Mr. Tameklo Esq. delivered a keynote speech at the Downstream Dialogue 2025, organized by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) in Accra on Tuesday.
The two-day dialogue, held under the theme “Ghana’s Downstream Oil and Gas Sector: Challenges and Opportunities,” provided a platform for stakeholders in the petroleum downstream sector to discuss pertinent issues, share insights, and develop actionable strategies for the growth and sustainability of the industry.
Topics discussed included the challenges of local content and participation, navigating the energy transition, and policy development and regulatory reforms.

Innovation, efficiency, and sustainability
Mr. Tameklo emphasized that the NPA envisions a downstream sector that is innovative, efficient, and sustainable.
“Since assuming office, I have emphasized the importance of affordability, quality, and reliability in the supply of petroleum products to Ghanaians. Our commitment is to ensure fair pricing and strict adherence to industry standards, in alignment with the vision of President John Dramani Mahama, to reset and transform the sector while also rolling out 24-hour economy solutions,” he said.
He called for robust collaboration with industry players, sister government agencies, and international partners to achieve the goals set for the industry, noting that through excellence, transparency, and innovation, Ghana’s petroleum downstream industry can remain an efficient and significant contributor to national prosperity.

Building on two decades of progress
Reflecting on the evolution of the industry, Mr. Tameklo noted that since the inception of the NPA about twenty years ago, significant progress has been made.
A solid foundation has been laid through the establishment of regulatory frameworks for pricing, supply, and quality, as well as the development of infrastructure.
“Ghana’s petroleum downstream plays a pivotal role in providing assurance for our nation’s energy security while driving economic growth,” he stated.
However, he also acknowledged that some policies have resulted in negative externalities such as illegal imports, credit opacity, distribution inefficiencies, and an infrastructure glut.

Adapting to global energy transition challenges
Moreover, Mr. Tameklo explained that the industry is evolving to meet global calls for climate change mitigation and to address the impending risk of fossil fuel asset stranding.
He stressed the need for a balance between ensuring energy security—by maintaining product availability, accessibility, and affordability for Ghanaian consumers—and adapting to global energy transition trends.
This balance, he suggested, is crucial for the sustainable growth of the downstream petroleum sector.
The NPA’s ongoing efforts underscore the importance of modernizing Ghana’s petroleum sector while addressing both domestic economic needs and global environmental challenges. With its focus on automation, continuous operations, and regulatory reforms, the NPA aims to foster an environment where innovation and efficiency drive the sector forward, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic prosperity