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The projected 18.36% increase in Ghana’s electricity rates has shocked the Consumer Protection Agency (CPA).
The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), in the opinion of CPA, failed to consult them with the anticipated rate change, describing the action as a unilateral decision that cannot be approved.
On Thursday, May 18, 2023, the Executive Director for CPA, Nana Prempeh Okgyeabuo Aduhene, said they are opposed to the increment and hence seek more interactions between PURC and the public on the topic during the morning show Nyansapo on the Kumasi-based OTEC 102.9 FM.
The PURC has declared an 18.36% increase in electricity and natural gas pricing.
The Commission claims that the action is being taken to prevent dumsor, often known as power outages, which could affect people and businesses.
According to a press statement seen by the media, the evaluation was conducted to preserve the actual cost of providing utility services.
The weighted average cost of natural gas (WACOG), high inflation, the mix of energy generation, and the depreciation of the local currency, the Cedi, against the US dollar, were all cited by PURC as contributing factors to the most recent increase.
However, the Executive Director of CPA said that it was improper for PURC to unilaterally raise tariffs without consulting consumers.
“I was shocked when i learned about the increase, because we at the CPA, normally engages PURC on sensitive issues such as this before it is finally decided”
“As representatives for the public, we believe the PURC ought to have taking the input of stakeholders before coming out with the final percentage”.
“We will write to the president over this blatant this deliberate attempt by the PURC to sideline CPA on important issues and find lasting solutions to the problem.”
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com/Jacob Agyenim Boateng
