The Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE) has called on government to secure additional natural gas supplies in advance of scheduled maintenance at key processing facilities.

The recommendation comes as the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition announces a two-week shutdown of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant in the Western Region, set for August 16–30, 2025.

Benjamin Nsiah, CEMSE’s Executive Director and an energy analyst, warned that without proper planning, the shutdown could put pressure on both energy supply and public finances.

“We need to schedule maintenance well ahead of time and ensure that additional natural gas supplies are secured before the year begins. The Tema LNG plant, which can import large volumes of natural gas, should also be utilised to help minimise environmental impacts.” Nsiah said

During the shutdown, gas supply from Atuabo will be suspended to allow for full inspections, repairs, and upgrades to critical systems. The Ministry noted that the maintenance is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the plant’s safe, reliable, and efficient operation, given its central role in Ghana’s energy supply chain.

To avoid disruptions, the Ministry has worked with power sector stakeholders to implement contingency plans, including the use of alternative fuels to maintain stable electricity generation.

“The Ministry reaffirms its unwavering commitment to reliable power supply,” its statement said, adding that regular progress updates will be provided during the maintenance period.