The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has assured Ghanaians that it will safeguard consumer interests as utility providers push for substantial tariff increases.
This follows proposals by Ghana Water Limited (GWL) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), each seeking more than a 200% increase in utility tariffs to meet rising operational costs.
The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has requested regulatory approval for a 281 percent increase in its water tariff, proposing a jump from GH¢5.28 per cubic metre to GH¢20.09 per cubic metre
ECG is also requesting a hike in its Distribution Service Charge (DSC1) from the current GHp19.0875/kWh to an average of GHp61.8028/kWh, citing inflation, foreign exchange volatility, interest rates, and the need to recover investment costs as drivers for the proposed adjustment.
The proposal has drawn criticism from consumers, who argue that the increases are disproportionate to the quality of service delivered.
Addressing the issue on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, PURC Board Member and Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah stressed the Commission’s role in balancing the interests of both consumers and utilities.
“The cost of energy is expensive, so we need to keep the lights on. We must ensure that energy is available for industry, for the economy to run, and to guarantee consumer comfort.
“The quality of service is key, but we also have a very difficult job—to ensure improved service delivery while keeping the utilities financially viable. Ultimately, we must find a win-win situation,” she said.
Source:Fiilafmonline/CitiNews
