- Nii Lante Vanderpuye urges government to reconsider recently announced utility tariff increases
- Warns that the 15.9% water and 9.8% electricity hikes are too high for struggling households
- Suggests spreading increases over time rather than implementing them all at once
The National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Nii Lante Vanderpuye, has called on the government and regulatory bodies to reconsider the recently announced utility tariff increases, warning that the proposed adjustments are too steep and will worsen the financial burden on ordinary Ghanaians.
During an appearance on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, December 4, he emphasized the importance of taking current economic difficulties into account before implementing any further tariff changes. He acknowledged that utility companies require adequate funding to operate effectively and deliver quality services, but insisted that consumers should not be overwhelmed in the process.
According to him, any tariff review should strike a fair balance between ensuring the sustainability of service providers and maintaining affordability for the public, especially at a time when many households are already struggling with rising living costs.
“They must consider the conditions we find ourselves in. We know they need these funds to provide services, but 15.9% for water and 9.8% for electricity is extremely high. It must be reviewed,” he said.
Mr. Vanderpuye noted that although the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) functions as an independent institution, its decisions have real consequences for citizens whose incomes are already under pressure.
“It is about the citizens of this country. If we are to accept that 9%, we should consider spreading it over a period. But a straight 9% increase is too much and will place additional strain on the average Ghanaian. We must take another look at it,” he added.
His remarks follow the PURC’s announcement of new electricity and water tariff adjustments, scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, as part of its 2026–2030 multi-year tariff review.
According to the Commission, the increases are necessary to meet the investment requirements of utility providers, enhance industry competitiveness, and safeguard long-term consumer interests.
