The Ministry of Energy has renewed its commitment to promoting the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in Ghana through the implementation of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM). The initiative, designed to enhance the accessibility and convenience of LPG usage, aims to achieve 50 percent adoption among Ghanaians by 2030.
Herbert Krapa, the Minister of Energy, announced during the 2024 Women in Energy Outreach Programme that the CRM, initially met with challenges, is now on track for a nationwide rollout in 2025. He emphasized the government’s determination to move away from traditional cooking methods such as firewood, which have adverse environmental and health effects, toward cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions.
The CRM introduces a modernized distribution system for LPG. Under this model, consumers will exchange empty LPG cylinders for filled ones at designated vending points, rather than refilling cylinders directly at gas stations. This streamlined approach involves transporting empty cylinders to bottling plants, where they are refilled and made available for distribution.
This system is designed to reduce the risks associated with direct refilling, including safety hazards, and to improve the efficiency of LPG supply chains. The ministry believes that this innovative approach will encourage more households to transition to LPG as their primary cooking energy source.
Herbert Krapa acknowledged that the initiative had encountered initial setbacks due to concerns raised by stakeholders. However, he noted that these challenges are being addressed through broad and inclusive consultations.
He stated, "The recirculation model is progressing well. We faced some initial concerns from stakeholders, but we have deepened the consultation process. From next year, we expect to see a more aggressive rollout of the model."
The minister expressed optimism about achieving the ambitious target of 50 percent LPG adoption by 2030. He emphasized the need for collective support from stakeholders, stating, "This program is ambitious, but we have the capacity to implement it effectively. We call on all stakeholders to give us the necessary support to realize this vision."
The adoption of LPG as a primary cooking fuel is not just about convenience but also environmental sustainability and public health. Many Ghanaians, particularly in rural areas, rely on firewood and charcoal for cooking. This contributes to deforestation and exposes users to harmful smoke, which can lead to respiratory illnesses.
By promoting LPG, the government seeks to address these issues and align with global efforts to combat climate change. The CRM initiative also supports Ghana’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 7, which focuses on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.
Herbert Krapa further elaborated on the practical benefits of the CRM, noting that it will eliminate the inconvenience of consumers having to visit multiple locations to refill their cylinders. "With this system, LPG users can exchange their empty cylinders for filled ones at designated points, saving time and ensuring safety," he explained.
The minister also highlighted the economic potential of the initiative. The implementation of the CRM is expected to create job opportunities in areas such as cylinder production, distribution, and maintenance. Additionally, the increased demand for LPG will stimulate investment in the energy sector, further boosting economic growth.
One of the key goals of the CRM is to make LPG accessible and affordable for all Ghanaians, regardless of their location. The ministry is working with private sector partners to establish a robust distribution network that reaches even the most remote communities.
Herbert Krapa urged Ghanaians to embrace the transition to LPG, emphasizing its benefits for health, safety, and the environment. He assured the public that the government is committed to addressing any challenges that may arise during the implementation process.
The Women in Energy Outreach Programme, where the minister made these remarks, is an annual event aimed at promoting gender inclusivity in the energy sector. This year’s event focused on empowering women to take active roles in driving sustainable energy initiatives in their communities.
The programme featured discussions on various topics, including the role of women in energy innovation, the importance of clean cooking solutions, and strategies for increasing LPG adoption.
As Ghana prepares for the rollout of the Cylinder Recirculation Model in 2025, the Ministry of Energy is calling on all stakeholders, including policymakers, private sector actors, and civil society organizations, to support the initiative. The success of the CRM will depend on collaborative efforts to address barriers, raise awareness, and ensure that LPG becomes the preferred choice for cooking energy across the country.
With its potential to transform cooking practices, improve public health, and protect the environment, the CRM represents a significant step forward in Ghana’s journey toward a more sustainable energy future. The Ministry of Energy remains confident that, with the right support and commitment, the ambitious target of 50 percent LPG adoption by 2030 can be achieved.
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