Henos Energy has officially commissioned Ghana’s first Drive-Thru Cylinder Distribution Outlet (CDO) at East Legon Hills in Accra. The company plans to establish 30 such outlets nationwide, significantly modernizing the distribution of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) across the country.
This innovative facility allows motorists to exchange empty LPG cylinders for full ones quickly and conveniently. It operates under the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), a government initiative designed to improve safety and accessibility for LPG consumers. The new drive-thru model also supports the government’s broader 24-hour economy policy by making LPG available outside traditional business hours.
The expansion of LPG distribution infrastructure is crucial for Ghana's energy sector and economic development. Increased access to LPG can reduce reliance on biomass fuels, which have negative health and environmental impacts. This move aligns with national efforts to promote cleaner energy sources and improve the quality of life for citizens, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas. The Cylinder Recirculation Model itself aims to standardize cylinder quality and enhance safety across the supply chain, a critical step given past incidents related to substandard cylinders.
Akua Ntiwaa Kwakye, Director of Gas at the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), praised Henos Energy for its pioneering role. She stated that the project exemplifies how innovation in the downstream petroleum sector can support the 24-hour economy while improving convenience and safety for consumers. Obed Kraine Boachie, Head of Gas and Commercial Regulation at the NPA, also commended the initiative, noting its alignment with the government’s agenda.
Henos Energy’s Chief Executive Officer, Henry Osei Yaw, announced that the company will first establish five outlets in Accra. Subsequent expansion will target the Northern Region and other parts of Ghana. This phased approach suggests a strategic rollout to address demand in key population centers before broader national coverage. The company also plans to accept damaged cylinders for replacement with safe ones, further enhancing consumer safety.
The company’s strategy includes developing a digital platform in collaboration with Mobile Money (MoMo) service providers. This platform will allow customers to order LPG through a mobile application, further streamlining the purchasing process. This digital integration reflects a growing trend in Ghana’s retail sector to leverage technology for improved customer service and operational efficiency. The availability of regulators and other LPG accessories at the outlets will provide a complete solution for consumers.
The introduction of these drive-thru outlets is expected to create new job opportunities within the energy distribution sector. It will also contribute to the formalization of LPG sales, potentially leading to better regulation and oversight. The increased convenience and safety features are likely to boost LPG adoption, supporting Ghana’s energy transition goals. Decision-makers will closely watch the operational success and consumer uptake of these new facilities as a benchmark for future energy infrastructure investments.