Source: Nana Antwi Boasiako
Benjamin Nsiah, Director of the Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy, says electricity tariffs should bypass have gone up by 10% to address the ongoing crises in the sector.
This comes after the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced a 5.84% increase in electricity tariffs and a 5.16% increase in water tariffs, effective July 1, 2024.
Speaking in an interview with Kwadwo Sefah-Danquah on the Happy morning show on Happy 98.8 FM, Mr Nsiah said, the 10% increase is necessary to generate sufficient income to clear debts and ensure sustainable power. He cited a report by the PURC which reveals that the sector is facing significant challenges that need to be addressed.
“If we want a sustainable power as a country, then this increment should have been 10% to help generate money to clear our debt,” he said.
However, Mr. Nsiah also acknowledged that the current increment could exacerbate economic hardship for Ghanaians, many of whom are already struggling with the ongoing electricity and water crises.
He expressed concern that the tariff increase could potentially collapse businesses in the country, many of which are already struggling to survive due to the crises. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach that takes into account the needs of both consumers and utility providers.