The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) has officially resumed crude oil refining operations after several years of inactivity, marking a significant milestone in efforts to revitalise Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector and strengthen national energy security.
The resumption follows the successful completion of major Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) works on the refinery’s Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), carried out over three months from August 1 to October 30, 2025.
The resumption of refining at TOR was expected to have positive implications for fuel availability, foreign exchange savings, job creation, and the overall stability of Ghana’s petroleum supply chain.
A press statement dated December 27, 2025, and issued by TOR said the maintenance exercise involved extensive repairs, inspections, and upgrades to critical systems that was executed in strict adherence to international engineering, safety, and operational standards.
After the completion of the TAM, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) conducted comprehensive regulatory inspections at the refinery to assess its readiness for operations.
It said the NPA subsequently confirmed TOR’s full compliance with all mandatory safety and operational requirements and granted clearance for the refinery to resume crude oil processing.
Phased operations
The company indicated that as part of a phased return to full capacity, TOR was currently operating at about 28,000 barrels per stream day (bpsd).
TOR management said the refinery would continue operating in the coming months to stabilise systems, optimise performance, and ensure sustained operational reliability ahead of its official recommissioning.
The statement further indicated that as a further sign of progress, TOR has completed the installation of a new furnace, known as F-61, which was expected to be commissioned and integrated into the CDU in the near future.
“The installation of the new furnace is projected to restore the refinery’s original nameplate capacity of 45,000 bpsd.” the statement added.
Management of TOR also outlined plans to expand production capacity to 60,000 barrels per stream day (bpsd) in the medium term, following the installation of a new air-cooler.
It said the government was expected to formally commission and tie in the F-61 furnace at a later date to be communicated to stakeholders and the general public.
Management of TOR expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama for his support, leadership, and commitment to restoring the refinery as a critical component of Ghana’s energy infrastructure.
It also acknowledged the role of the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, noting that his policy leadership, technical oversight, and hands-on engagement were instrumental in bringing TOR back to operational life.
The company also commended the board, management, and the workforce for their resilience, professionalism, and dedication throughout the revival process, describing the journey as challenging but ultimately rewarding.
Management of TOR reiterated the refinery’s commitment to safe, efficient, and sustainable operations as it reclaims its role as a cornerstone of the country’s energy sector.
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