New gas processing plant will be a game-changer for Ghana - Finance Minister

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson called the Second Gas Processing Plant (GPP II) a game-changer. He believes it will transform Ghana’s energy landscape, create jobs, and save money.

At the GPP II Implementation Committee's inauguration, he highlighted Ghana's reliance on costly liquid fuels. This dependence costs the nation over $1 billion each year.

Dr. Forson stated that without the Atuabo Gas Plant, Ghana would face serious issues. He sees GPP II as an opportunity to secure the country's future.

The new plant could save nearly $500 million every two years. This savings could cover project costs quickly while creating over 1,000 jobs.

Dr. Forson joined Energy Minister John Abdulai Jinapor to inaugurate the technical committee overseeing implementation. He urged the committee to deliver a plan within four weeks.

He stressed that delays in critical infrastructure are no longer acceptable. “This is too important for our country’s welfare,” he said.

Energy Minister Jinapor echoed this urgency. He noted little progress has been made since Atuabo Gas Plant was commissioned.

Ghana faces a growing gas deficit, increasing its dependence on expensive imported fuels. This situation pressures public finances and threatens energy security.

Once completed, GPP II will improve natural gas supply for power generation and industry. It aims to reduce reliance on liquid fuels and ease foreign exchange pressures.

The project also seeks to position Ghana as a regional energy hub in the long term.

During the ceremony, two committees were inaugurated: a Technical Implementation Committee and a Communications and Social License Committee led by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Hajia Shamima Muslim.

Industry analysts welcomed this initiative. They believe successful delivery of GPP II could stabilize power costs and boost investor confidence in Ghana’s energy sector.