Ghana to Phase Out Crude Oil in Power Generation with Second Gas Train – Prez Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has announced Ghana’s intention to gradually eliminate the use of crude oil in power generation, as part of efforts to promote cleaner, more cost-effective energy solutions. The move will be anchored by the development of a second gas processing train to boost domestic gas supply and energy efficiency.

Speaking at the 2025 Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, President Mahama stated, “There was a bit of disinvestment in the energy sector, but new commitments are emerging. For example, we are building a second gas train to process more gas from our first field.”

The existing gas processing plant in Atuabo is currently unable to handle the anticipated increase in gas production, hence the need for an additional train. The shift toward natural gas is expected to reduce Ghana’s reliance on crude oil, which has proven to be both expensive and unstable for powering thermal plants.

President Mahama highlighted the return of oil and gas company ENI to active drilling operations, with early indications pointing to significant discoveries. “If that materializes, we can eliminate crude oil in power generation completely within the next three to five years,” he said.

The President also emphasized that the improving economic outlook positions Ghana as an attractive hub for upstream and midstream investments in the oil and gas sector. He encouraged investors to take advantage of the stable macroeconomic environment and partner with the government to expand infrastructure.

“The oil and gas sector was treated as toxic. I’m not sure why, but it hasn’t been prioritized by previous administrations. Under my leadership, I will roll out the red carpet for any investor willing to drill and develop Ghana’s resources,” he affirmed.