Consumer Protection Agency calls for suspension of utility tariff hikes

The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) has urged the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to stop its planned utility tariff adjustments. These adjustments are set to take effect on May 2, 2025.

The CPA believes the tariff hike is premature. They argue it lacks necessary consultation and consumer representation required by law. Nana Prempeh Okogyeabour Aduhene, Director of Mediation and Arbitration at the CPA, issued a statement about this issue.

The CPA noted a publication proposing a 14.75% increase for electricity and a 4.02% increase for water. They insist that PURC should not implement these increases until its Technical and External Committees are reconstituted.

These two important committees were dissolved when the new government took office. The CPA believes there was insufficient consultation and that consumer interests were not represented properly.

The Technical Committee reviews utility tariff applications and conducts audits. The External Committee gathers consumer feedback in communities and recommends service improvements.

These committees are mandated by the PURC Act of 1997 (Act 538). Their presence ensures fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in decision-making.

The CPA also expressed concerns about ongoing consumer complaints regarding utility services. They stated these issues have not received adequate attention from PURC.

Many consumers have raised concerns about utility services that need addressing before any tariff increases can be accepted.

Finally, the CPA reminded PURC of its obligation to ensure reliable electricity and water supply to the public. They urged the Commission to act in good faith by suspending proposed hikes until proper stakeholder engagement occurs.