The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has described Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as one of the most practical and accessible clean cooking fuels available to households and businesses across Ghana.
According to him, Ghana has made significant progress in expanding access to LPG, with national penetration currently estimated at about 43 percent.
Speaking at the World LPG Day celebration in Accra on Monday, June 8, under the theme “LPG: Pass It Forward,” Dr. Jinapor noted that although the country has made considerable gains over the years, millions of Ghanaians still rely on traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal for cooking and other domestic activities.
He said the current level of LPG usage demonstrates progress but also highlights the need for intensified efforts to ensure wider access to cleaner energy sources.
Dr. Jinapor stressed that the benefits of LPG go beyond convenience and affordability, explaining that increased adoption of the fuel contributes significantly to improved public health by reducing exposure to harmful indoor air pollution, particularly among women and children.
He added that greater use of LPG also helps reduce pressure on Ghana’s forests by lowering dependence on firewood and charcoal, thereby supporting the country’s environmental and climate goals.
“As we work towards a low-carbon future, it is important to recognise that the energy transition is a journey. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and modern bioenergy will play an increasingly important role in Ghana’s energy mix. However, the transition must be practical, orderly and inclusive,” he said.
The Minister noted that natural gas and LPG remain critical transition fuels capable of supporting economic growth, energy security and industrial development while the country gradually scales up investments in renewable energy technologies.
According to him, these fuels provide a realistic pathway for reducing carbon emissions as Ghana pursues its long-term green transition agenda.
Dr. Jinapor further reaffirmed government’s commitment to accelerating the country’s transition to cleaner energy sources, citing the establishment of the Renewable Energy and Green Transition Fund as a major step in that direction.
He explained that the fund is intended to mobilise resources for investments in renewable energy deployment, clean energy technologies, energy efficiency programmes, and other initiatives aimed at advancing Ghana’s climate and sustainable development objectives.
“The Fund demonstrates our determination to build an energy future that is cleaner, more resilient and more prosperous for all Ghanaians,” he stated.
Dr. Jinapor also emphasised the need to strengthen the LPG value chain to ensure sustained growth in usage across the country.
He acknowledged the important role played by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), LPG marketing companies, and other industry stakeholders in ensuring the availability, accessibility, and safe use of LPG nationwide.
The Minister assured stakeholders that government would continue to support efforts to expand LPG infrastructure, improve safety standards, increase public education, and boost consumer confidence in the use of the product.
He said such measures are essential to achieving Ghana’s clean energy goals while ensuring affordable and reliable energy access for all citizens.
READ ALSO:
Lands Ministry proposes decentralised mining licence system
I need you all to return to duty – Suspended KATH CEO appeals to striking staff
