The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has attributed the rise in electricity bills to a mix of approved tariffs, household consumption habits, inefficient appliances, and inadequate electrical installations. In an interview, the General Manager of External Communications at ECG,Dr. Charles Nii Ayiku Ayiku, clarified that the company implements tariffs set by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) rather than establishing them independently.
He pointed out that high-consumption devices like air conditioners, refrigerators, and water heaters significantly contribute to increased bills. Additionally, he warned about “vampire loads,” where appliances continue to draw power even in standby mode. Dr. Ayiku stressed that consumer habits, such as leaving devices plugged in and using outdated appliances, also play a role in escalating costs.
He advised homeowners, particularly those in residences over 20 years old, to have their wiring inspected by certified electricians to prevent excessive consumption and safety hazards due to faulty wiring. While acknowledging occasional complaints about faulty meters, he assured customers that ECG investigates these issues promptly.
Dr. Ayiku also addressed temporary meter shortages in some districts and cautioned against unauthorized payments to individuals posing as ECG staff. He encouraged customers to utilize official channels for services and to consult ECG’s website or social media for accurate information. Ultimately, ECG is advocating for energy-efficient practices and proper electrical installations to help manage electricity costs effectively.