We welcome Energy Ministry’s directive on a single unified measurement system – CBOD

The Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD) has welcomed the Ministry of Energy’s directive mandating all entities involved in revenue assurance measurements within the oil and gas sector to comply with the new standard.

This standard was primarily developed collaboratively by the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) with the Ministry of Trade and Industry and other stakeholders.

According to the CBOD, it believes that a single unified measurement system certified by the GSA is sufficient to ensure accurate and reliable data.

It emphasised the importance of a streamlined and well-regulated oil and gas sector.

It therefore advocated for a system where the private sector plays a more prominent role in managing specific aspects with the government maintaining an overarching regulatory framework and enforcing standards.

“The Chamber proposes a standardized approach, where meters mandated by the GSA could be installed by either the Depot, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), or the Ghana Revenue Authority. The GSA would be responsible for the regular calibration of the meters. This system aligns with international best practices, where standard authorities handle meter calibration, eliminating the need for duplication by several entities, which comes at a cost to the consumer”, it said

“The role of the GSA in ensuring and maintaining standards is in the best interest of the state. All regulations within the sector should ultimately serve the national interest and be subject to state/regulatory oversight”, it added.

The Chamber acknowledged GRA’s quest to ensure revenue assurance for government.

Nevertheless, it said any institution, whether private or public, mandated to undertake that on government’s behalf, should do so in compliance with standards set by both the GSA and the Ministry of Trade Industry to ensure a transparent and efficient measurement system within the oil and gas sector

It welcomed initiatives by the Ministry of Energy to lead further dialogue with relevant stakeholders and to ensure a transparent and efficient measurement system within the oil and gas sector.