Parliament approves GHS1 fuel levy hike to address energy sector debt

Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This bill introduces a GHS1 increase in the levy on petroleum products.

The measure aims to generate an extra 5.7 billion Ghana Cedis. This revenue will help reduce energy sector debts and support stable power supply.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson stated that energy sector debt is currently 3.1 billion dollars. He noted that at least 3.7 billion dollars is needed to clear it fully. Additionally, he mentioned that the government requires another 1.2 billion dollars for fuel procurement in 2025.

During his speech in Parliament on June 3, Dr. Forson assured that the levy increase would not raise fuel prices at the pump.

However, the Minority Caucus opposed the levy and called it inappropriate. They staged a walkout during the approval process, arguing that the Majority lacked sufficient numbers for a binding decision on the bill.