Several state-owned utility companies have submitted proposals to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), each seeking significant tariff adjustments to sustain operations, improve infrastructure, and ensure long-term service delivery.
According to the companies, the proposed adjustments are necessary due to underlying operational challenges and the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining (galamsey).
Some of the proposals represent tariff increases of more than 200%.
Here’s why ECG is proposing a 225% tariff hike in the coming years
Here are the companies and the rate of increase they are seeking from PURC:
Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) – 225%
The Electricity Company of Ghana is requesting approval for a 225% increase in its Distribution Service Charge (DSC1) for the 2025–2029 regulatory period.
If approved, the tariff would rise from GH¢0.190384/kWh to GH¢0.618028/kWh.
ECG explained that the increment is “critical to avert financial collapse, strengthen infrastructure, and improve the reliability of electricity supply.”
Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) – 280%
The Ghana Water Company Limited has proposed a 280% hike in water tariffs — the highest among the utilities.
The company attributes its request to the rising costs of treating water due to illegal mining (galamsey) and widespread pollution of water bodies.
The proposal was presented during PURC’s stakeholder engagement for 2025.
Ghana National Gas Company (Ghana Gas) – 91%
Ghana Gas is seeking to adjust its tariff from US$1.10 to US$2.10 per million metric British thermal units (MMBtu) — a 91% increase.
The company says the adjustment is necessary to sustain operations, expand infrastructure, and ensure reliable natural gas transmission.
Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) – 130%
GRIDCo has applied for approval to more than double its transmission service tariff, moving from 5.6422 pesewas/kWh to 12.9768 pesewas/kWh in 2025 — a 130% increase.
GRIDCo argues that the current tariff is inadequate and stresses the need for cost-reflective rates. For the 2026–2030 review period, the company projects tariffs to remain within 13.04–13.44 pesewas/kWh.
The PURC is expected to review all proposals before making final determinations on tariff adjustments for 2025 and beyond.
SSD/MA
