Some tax analysts are proposing broader stakeholder engagement to reform the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and boost its operational efficiency, rather than allowing the utility provider to proceed with its proposed 225% tariff increase.
Some tax analysts are proposing broader stakeholder engagement to reform the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and boost its operational efficiency, rather than allowing the utility provider to proceed with its proposed 225% tariff increase.
Francis Timore Boi’s remarks add to growing concerns from the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana, which has issued a 30-day ultimatum to the government to establish a performance compact that will assess and improve the efficiency of both ECG and the Ghana Water Company Limited.
In an interview with Citi Business News, Mr. Timore Boi stressed that tariff increases should not be the go-to solution, urging a more balanced and consumer-friendly approach.
“A balanced and phased approach is needed,” he explained. “If ECG truly needs more revenue, a sudden 225% increase is quite drastic for consumers. A better approach might involve a phased increase tied to clear milestones — such as reducing losses, improving service reliability, and accelerating meter deployment. Many customers have applied for meters and still haven’t received them.
For example, the expanded lifeline ban for low-income households and also essential services if they can be exempted from the repeated increases to save them and that is why dialogue and stakeholder engagement is critical for me”, he noted.
Mr. Timore Boi further argued that any tariff review should be conditional and designed to protect the most vulnerable groups and critical sectors of the economy.
“Tariff increases should be conditional,” he added. “We need to protect vulnerable groups and essential sectors. Any tariff adjustment must come with stronger safety nets.”
The debate over ECG’s proposed tariff hike continues to intensify, with industry players calling for efficiency-driven reforms and accountability before any major adjustment in electricity prices.