The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has issued a stern warning to fuel stations operating without the necessary licenses, cautioning that such outlets face immediate closure and possible decommissioning.
In a statement, the regulator reaffirmed its mandate under the National Petroleum Authority Act, 2005 (Act 691), as amended, to oversee all commercial activities related to the storage, distribution, and sale of petroleum products. The move is part of efforts to clamp down on illegal operations and strengthen compliance in Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector.
Quoting Section 11 of the Act, the NPA stressed that no individual or entity is permitted to engage in petroleum downstream activities including the importation, exportation, shipment, transportation, processing, refining, storage, distribution, marketing, or sale of petroleum products without a license issued by the Authority’s Board.
The law also restricts eligibility for licensing to Ghanaians or foreign companies in registered joint ventures with Ghanaian partners, provided they meet local content and participation requirements. Furthermore, licensed operators are required to display their permits prominently at their business premises.
“This enforcement drive is essential for public safety, consumer protection, and sustaining confidence in Ghana’s regulated petroleum supply chain,” the NPA stated, noting that the crackdown comes amid rising energy demand and rapid market expansion.