The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that utility companies deliver quality services in line with approved tariff structures to guarantee customer satisfaction.
According to the Acting Executive Secretary, Dr. Shafic Suleman, the Commission is determined to build a resilient and cost-effective utility framework that promotes efficiency, fairness, and improved service delivery for all consumers.
He was speaking at a Public Hearing on the 2025–2030 Major Tariff Review held in Kumasi, which brought together representatives of utility companies, security agencies, market associations, local assemblies, students, and other stakeholders to deliberate on proposed tariff adjustments.
Dr. Suleman emphasized that any tariff structure must be realistic and strike a balance between cost recovery for the utility providers and affordability for consumers.
He said feedback gathered from stakeholders would be crucial in shaping future tariff policies.
Dr. Kwabena Nyarko Otoo, a Commissioner of PURC, noted that the hearing provided an opportunity for utility companies to explain their proposals and justify their requests for tariff reviews.
He cautioned against unreasonable tariff increases, saying, “A 200 percent increase is not justifiable if water is not flowing.”
Dr. Otoo also called for transparency in the provision of electricity meters, stressing that meters should be accessible to the public without the payment of bribes.
Daasebre Kofi Asante Mensa, Sabronumhene, decried the negative impact of illegal mining (galamsey) on water bodies, noting that the pollution had made water treatment more expensive.
He urged government and communities to strengthen enforcement measures to curb illegal mining, which he said would help sustain the utility sector.
Representatives from the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Volta River Authority (VRA), and GRIDCo were present to educate the public on their proposed tariff adjustments.
They explained that tariff reviews were essential to maintaining facilities, procuring new equipment, and treating polluted water sources.
Members of the public, including artisans and traders, appealed to ECG to make meters readily available at approved prices and intensify efforts to combat illegal connections, which drain the company’s resources.
They also urged GWCL to respond swiftly to issues such as burst pipes and supply interruptions.
The public hearing formed part of PURC’s nationwide stakeholder engagement process to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in utility tariff determination.