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The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) decision to modify tariffs has been the subject of a lawsuit by the Consumer Protection Agency (CPA), which has declared the action unlawful.
If their calls to cease tariff adjustments are ignored, the CPA claims they would go to court to stop PURC.
Nana Prempeh Okogyeabur, the Director in Charge of Mediation and Arbitration at CPA, said that following a change of government, the Technical Committee and External Committee—two panels legally required to examine tariffs at PURC—have not yet been established.
Nana Prempeh stressed that permitting the tariff adjustment would harm not only companies but also regular Ghanaians during an interview on Dr. Cash’s Dwabrem show on OTEC 102.9 FM on Wednesday.
Citing variables such exchange rates, inflation forecasts, fuel prices, and the present balance of hydro-thermal power, the PURC had declared a 14.75% increase in electricity and a 4.02% increase in water tariffs, which would take effect on May 2, 2025. The CPA, however, contests the validity of this decision, claiming that the PURC failed to adequately consult and effectively represent the interests of consumers.
Nana Prempeh emphasized that the CPA’s first priority is safeguarding consumers from unfair practices and stated that the agency will do every effort to stop the tariff increment.
According to the CPA, the PURC’s decision is illegitimate and does not pass the fairness, openness, and inclusivity tests in the absence of the restoration of the Technical and External Committees.
Until extensive consultations are held and consumer concerns are sufficiently represented, the agency has urged PURC to halt the planned tariff adjustments.
The CPA also raised concerns about the caliber of service provided by utility companies, citing recurring unresolved complaints from customers.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com/Jacob Agyenim Boateng
