SCDP Cameroon: Douala Fuel Storage Expansion Boosts LPG Capacity 40%

• Cameroon's SCDP has expanded fuel and LPG storage and import capacity in Douala, inaugurating new facilities on August 21.
• A new 1,000-ton LPG storage sphere at the Bonabéri depot increased its capacity by 40% to 3,500 tons, entering service in February 2025.
• A new pipeline now links petroleum facilities at the Port of Douala to SCDP's Bessengué depot.
• The expansion addresses Cameroon's heavy reliance on imported refined products, a consequence of the 2019 SONARA refinery shutdown.
• SCDP is already planning the construction of another 1,000-ton LPG sphere at its Bonabéri facility.

This substantial SCDP Douala fuel storage expansion represents a strategic move to stabilize Cameroon's energy supply, a critical objective as the nation continues to grapple with heavy reliance on imported refined petroleum products.

Cameroon's state-owned petroleum storage company, SCDP, has significantly bolstered its fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage and import-handling capabilities within Douala. On August 21, the company officially marked the opening of several crucial new facilities, including a 1,000-ton LPG storage sphere at its Bonabéri depot. This particular addition represents a substantial enhancement to the SCDP Bonabéri expansion efforts, directly increasing the depot's LPG storage capacity from 2,500 tons to 3,500 tons, a notable 40% rise.

Further strengthening the Douala petroleum infrastructure, the inaugurated projects also included a vital pipeline. This new conduit establishes a direct link between the petroleum facilities situated at the Port of Douala and SCDP's Bessengué depot, streamlining logistics and distribution. Additionally, the ceremony celebrated the unveiling of SCDP's new head office, now located in Bonanjo, signaling a broader organizational development alongside the operational upgrades.

The 1,000-ton LPG sphere, a cornerstone of this expansion, was initially delivered in November 2024. Following a period of rigorous regulatory testing, the facility successfully entered service in February 2025, ensuring its compliance and operational readiness before becoming fully integrated into the national energy supply chain. These strategic investments are designed to provide SCDP with greater operational flexibility in managing LPG supplies, a critical need given the country's evolving energy demands.

This substantial SCDP Douala fuel storage expansion represents a strategic move to stabilize Cameroon's energy supply, a critical objective as the nation continues to grapple with heavy reliance on imported refined petroleum products. This dependency intensified significantly following the May 2019 fire that led to the complete cessation of refining operations at the SONARA refinery, profoundly impacting Cameroon's domestic production capabilities.

The additional capacity, particularly for LPG, is directly aimed at addressing the challenges posed by rising domestic consumption. By increasing storage, SCDP gains enhanced flexibility to manage inventory and distribution, mitigating potential supply disruptions and price volatility. This focus on Cameroon energy sector development through robust infrastructure is paramount for national energy security.

Such large-scale infrastructure projects, while vital for national stability, inherently bring heightened scrutiny. The expansion is likely to lead to new public procurement opportunities for related services and equipment, alongside complex contractual negotiations for logistics, supply, and maintenance. Furthermore, the expanded Douala petroleum infrastructure will undoubtedly face increased oversight regarding environmental and safety compliance, ensuring that these critical facilities operate responsibly and securely within the country's regulatory framework.

Looking ahead, the commitment to bolstering Cameroon LPG import capacity remains a priority for SCDP. The company is not resting on its recent achievements; plans are already in motion for the construction of an additional 1,000-ton LPG sphere at the Bonabéri depot. This ongoing development underscores a long-term vision for enhancing the nation's ability to store and distribute essential energy resources.

Once completed, this further expansion at Bonabéri will solidify Cameroon's position in managing its energy needs, particularly for LPG, which is increasingly vital for domestic use. These continuous investments in the Douala petroleum infrastructure are crucial for supporting the country's economic growth and ensuring a more resilient and stable energy landscape for its citizens, reducing vulnerability to external market fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.

This expansion signifies a strategic move to stabilize Cameroon's energy supply, which may lead to new public procurement opportunities, contractual negotiations for logistics and supply, and heightened scrutiny of environmental and safety compliance for the expanded infrastructure.

Source: Original reporting via {source}