Survey Shows Ghanaians Ready to Pay More for Reliable Electricity – PURC

A new nationwide survey by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) reveals that many Ghanaians are willing to pay higher tariffs in exchange for a more stable and reliable power supply.

Conducted across all 16 regions between May and June 2025, the survey gathered opinions from 3,759 individuals to understand their views on electricity costs and service reliability.

Results show that 62% of respondents prioritize consistency in electricity delivery, and more than 84% view it as vital for Ghana’s economic and social development.

Urban dwellers, business owners, and wealthier citizens were more open to paying extra for uninterrupted supply, whereas students and low-income groups emphasized affordability.

Gender and education also influenced opinions; men and highly educated participants leaned towards reliability, while women expressed more concern about cost.

Many consumers highlighted a lack of confidence in the electricity system, citing operational inefficiencies and unplanned outages as major issues.

Participants called for more transparent, customer-focused policies, including better communication during power cuts and reforms to reduce inefficiencies.

The survey noted a strong preference for prepaid meters, reflecting a broader trend toward pay-as-you-go systems, though affordability remains a hurdle for poorer households.

PURC emphasized that consumer feedback will guide efforts to strike a balance between cost and reliability, ensuring inclusive energy policies for national development.

This study reinforces the urgency for utility reforms that address trust, affordability, and grid reliability to support Ghana’s long-term energy security.