Opposition MPs demand answers as electricity and water prices go up amid claims of economic recovery
A fresh political storm has erupted over the latest utility tariff adjustments, with the Minority in Parliament challenging the justification behind the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) decision to increase electricity and water charges.
The Minority has described the move as difficult to understand, arguing that the tariff hike does not reflect the economic improvements being highlighted by the government.
Under the new adjustment, electricity tariffs are set to rise by 3.49 per cent, while water tariffs will increase by 0.85 per cent effective July 1, 2026.
But Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Energy Committee, Collins Adomako-Mensah, questioned the logic behind the increase, insisting that recent economic indicators should have brought relief to consumers rather than higher bills.
He argued that with the cedi strengthening, inflation declining, and other economic indicators improving, Ghanaians expected utility costs to reduce.
“It doesn’t add up,” the Minority argued, questioning how exchange rate movements and other factors could justify another upward adjustment.
The Minority further demanded greater transparency from PURC, insisting that consumers deserve a clearer explanation of the calculations and factors used to arrive at the new tariffs.
However, PURC has defended the adjustment, explaining that tariff reviews consider factors such as exchange rates, inflation, fuel costs, and the electricity generation mix. The Commission said exchange rate pressures played a major role in the latest review.
The controversy continues as households and businesses brace for higher utility costs, with critics warning that the increase could deepen financial pressure on consumers.
