ASEC applauds PURC for rejecting 'outrageous' 225% tariff proposal

The Africa Sustainable Energy Centre (ASEC) has applauded the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) for what it describes as a “thoughtful approach” to the latest round of electricity tariff adjustments.

In its latest decision, the PURC approved only a 1.14% increase in electricity tariffs, far lower than the 225% increment that had initially been proposed.

“The Commission has once again demonstrated its commitment to fairly regulating electricity prices, placing customers first by approving only a 1.14% increase instead of the outrageous 225% proposed,” ASEC said in a statement.

The Centre stressed that future tariff adjustments must always follow due process and should not unfairly transfer the burden of inefficiency onto consumers.

Electricity tariffs to increase in October, water bills unchanged - PURC

“Under no circumstances should the inefficiencies of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) be shifted onto consumers,” it cautioned.

ASEC further urged that any future increments for ECG must be tied to measurable performance improvements, particularly in tackling technical and commercial losses.

“Any future tariff increases for ECG should be tied to strict performance benchmarks, particularly in reducing both technical and commercial losses,” the statement noted.

To safeguard the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s electricity sector, the Centre called for reforms in ECG’s operations.

“ECG must implement modern and effective revenue mobilisation strategies. This will ensure sector stability without unnecessarily burdening citizens,” ASEC said.

The energy advocacy group concluded by urging PURC to remain steadfast in its regulatory independence: “We urge PURC to remain firm on this commendable path, resisting any external pressures that could lead to unjustifiable increases and further strain on Ghanaians.”

SP/SA

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