Government’s 50% target for LPG consumption unattainable due to high prices
Consumption of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has seen a decline of 12% in 2022, according to Gabriel Kumi, the Vice President of the LPG Marketers Association of Ghana.
Kumi attributed the decline to the persistent increase in prices of the commodity. He stated that the 50% target set by cabinet for LPG consumption has been unattainable due to the continuous rise in prices.
He expressed concern about the decline in consumption rate and said that it should be a major worry for the government.
The increased dependence on charcoal in some areas in the country is also contributing to the decline in LPG consumption. He urged the government to employ prudent measures to reduce the price of LPG, which would increase interest and consumption in the commodity.
In an interview, Kumi emphasized that the government needs to take proactive measures to reduce the prices of LPG. He appealed to the government to consider reducing taxes on the commodity to make it more affordable for the citizens.
The decline in LPG consumption has raised concerns about the government’s efforts to promote the use of the commodity, which is considered a cleaner and safer alternative to other sources of fuel like charcoal and firewood.
The government has been pushing for the increased use of LPG in the country, as it is seen as a means of reducing deforestation and improving air quality.
The use of LPG has been touted as a viable solution to Ghana’s energy challenges, as it is a cleaner and more efficient source of energy. The government has set a target of increasing LPG consumption to 50% by 2030, as part of its efforts to promote the use of cleaner energy sources in the country.
The decline in LPG consumption is a setback for the government’s efforts to promote the use of cleaner energy sources in the country. The government will need to take proactive measures to address the challenges facing the LPG sector, including the persistent increase in prices of the commodity.
The promotion of LPG usage will require a multi-pronged approach that includes the reduction of taxes on the commodity, the implementation of policies that encourage the use of LPG, and the promotion of public awareness about the benefits of using LPG.
