Ghana is actively positioning itself as a regional gas trading and distribution hub, betting on liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports and expanded domestic production. This strategy aims to meet rising local demand while supplying neighbouring West African markets. The government project anticipates a significant financial commitment of approximately GHS 4.7 billion (USD 1.5 billion) in new upstream gas production investments.
Gas demand in Ghana is projected to reach about 840 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) by 2030. This demand could approach one billion cubic feet per day in the longer term. Domestic production is expected to decline naturally as existing fields mature, creating a projected shortfall. LNG imports are a strategic necessity to bridge this gap for Ghana and the wider sub-region.
This initiative fits into Ghana’s broader ambition to become a regional energy hub, supporting its significant economic growth. Ghana has already made progress in its power sector, achieving approximately 90 percent electricity access rates. The country's energy policy focuses on diversifying energy sources and ensuring energy security, which is critical for industrial development and job creation. Data from the West African Gas Pipeline Company (WAPCo) shows record gas deliveries in 2025 and 2026, indicating growing regional demand.
Hamis Ussif, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), highlighted the necessity for LNG imports. He stated at the West Africa Gas Summit 2026 that even with ongoing investments and imports from Nigeria, domestic production alone will not meet expected demand. Mr. Ussif emphasised that the Tema-based LNG terminal, now 95 percent complete, is a regional asset.
The completion of the Tema LNG terminal will significantly boost Ghana's capacity to import up to 400 mmscfd of gas. This supply will go to both domestic and regional markets through existing and planned infrastructure. Ghana plans to supply gas to Togo and Benin via the West African Gas Pipeline. The country is also exploring LNG bunkering and trucking solutions for landlocked countries like Liberia, Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, and Mali. This expansion will enable Ghana to leverage its strategic geographical position and infrastructure.
Ghana's existing gas production comes from the Jubilee, TEN, and Sankofa fields. Sankofa alone contributes about 70 percent of domestic gas output, at roughly 280 mmscfd. Plans are in place to increase Sankofa's production to 350 mmscfd through additional investment. Partners in the Jubilee and TEN fields have committed approximately GHS 30 billion (USD 2 billion) towards production expansion by 2028. Sankofa partners are expected to invest a further GHS 22.5 billion (USD 1.5 billion) to boost gas output. These investments total GHS 4.7 billion in new upstream gas production.
Beyond current assets, GNPC is actively seeking partners for new exploration and development. These efforts target marginal discoveries that could unlock an estimated one billion barrels of oil and about 2.5 trillion cubic feet of gas. Studies in the Voltaian Basin also indicate potential resources exceeding 11 billion barrels of oil equivalent. This long-term strategy underscores Ghana’s commitment to sustainable energy development.
The regional gas market faces challenges, including payment discipline, contract enforcement, and supply reliability. WAPCo has identified these as key risks to future investment and expansion. However, GNPC believes that growing demand and improving infrastructure will create a positive outlook for regional gas trade, attracting further investment.