The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer interests as it concludes the Southern Sector Public Hearing on the 2025–2030 Multi-Year Tariff Review.
The event, held at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi, the Ashanti Regional capital, formed part of the Commission’s broader stakeholder engagement initiative aimed at promoting transparency and inclusiveness in the tariff-setting process.
According to the PURC, the hearings are designed to gather public input on proposed tariff adjustments and the quality of utility services across the country.
The Commission is working closely with major utility providers, including the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), and the Volta River Authority (VRA), to ensure that consumer concerns are fully considered in the final tariff decisions.
Executive Secretary of the PURC, Mr. Shafiq Suleman, emphasized the Commission’s focus on achieving a fair balance between utility providers and consumers.
“The best tariffs are those that ensure fairness and reflect the true value of the services provided. The consumer’s interest is our ultimate priority,” Mr. Suleman stated. “We want to ensure that utility services remain reliable, affordable, and sustainable.”
He noted that feedback from the public hearings will play a key role in shaping the final tariff structure for the 2025–2030 period — including decisions on whether tariffs should be adjusted upward or downward.
Mr. Suleman also addressed concerns about the impact of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, on utility operations.
“Galamsey continues to affect the operations of ECG, Ghana Water Company, and other providers, forcing them to spend more resources than usual to serve the public. Unfortunately, this cost is eventually transferred to consumers,” he explained.
He urged the public to support the national fight against illegal mining, describing it as a collective responsibility that affects both service providers and consumers.
With the Southern Sector hearings now completed, the PURC is set to move to the Northern Sector to continue its nationwide consultations. The outcome of these engagements will inform the final tariffs for the 2025–2030 period, ensuring that they are equitable, transparent, and sustainable.
