PURC links tariff increases to better utility services

In the wake of staggering utility tariff proposals that have sent a chill through Ghanaian households and businesses, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) is doubling down on its commitment to protect consumer interests as it evaluates the requests.

The assurance comes following intense public outcry over the disparity between tariff hikes and poor service delivery.

The PURC is strongly linking any potential adjustments to a verifiable improvement in the quality of service.

The regulator insists that tariffs must be justifiable and directly tied to the efficient delivery of electricity and water, reiterating PURC’s interest in transparency, consultation, and striking a fair balance.

The Commission’s mandate, established by law, requires it to balance the need for utility providers to recover their operational costs and ensure their financial viability with the paramount need to protect the affordability and welfare of the consumer.

The Executive Secretary highlighted that the public hearings, including one recently held in nearby Sunyani (Bono Region), as a deliberate strategy to foster transparency and inclusivity in the tariff-setting process.

The feedback gathered from Bono East residents and businesses will directly inform the Commission’s final decision on the Multi-Year Tariff Order, from 2025-2030

Despite the PURC’s firm assurances, consumer reaction in the Bono East Region remains a mixture of scepticism, cautious hope, and firm demands for moderation.

The dialogue between the PURC and consumers is set to intensify as the Commission moves towards finalising its decision on the Multi-Year Tariff Order, expected to be announced in mid-November and take effect in January 2026.

The coming weeks will test the PURC’s commitment to its statutory mandate of protecting the consumer while ensuring a financially sustainable sector.