The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) in the Ashanti Region of Ghana played a crucial role in safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring equitable utility services throughout 2024. Their interventions led to substantial financial recoveries for consumers and facilitated critical infrastructure repairs, fostering a more balanced relationship between utility providers and the public they serve. Through proactive engagement and diligent investigation, the PURC addressed a wide range of consumer complaints, ultimately contributing to a more efficient and reliable utility landscape in the region.
One of the most significant achievements of the PURC in 2024 was the retrieval of GH¢262,558.53 from utility companies as refunds for affected consumers. These refunds were issued in response to various consumer grievances, including instances of overbilling, metering irregularities, unlawful service disconnections, and damage to household appliances resulting from voltage fluctuations. This proactive approach not only provided financial relief to consumers but also sent a clear message to utility providers about the importance of accurate billing practices and responsible service delivery. By addressing these issues head-on, the PURC demonstrated its commitment to protecting consumer interests and holding utility companies accountable for their actions.
Beyond addressing individual consumer complaints, the PURC also played a vital role in facilitating the repair of damaged utility infrastructure. The Commission successfully collected GH¢396,010.00 from various construction companies as compensation for damages they caused to the Ghana Water Company Limited’s network during road construction projects. This substantial recovery allowed the Ghana Water Company to repair a significant number of damaged transmission pipes, restoring vital water services to affected communities. The PURC’s intervention in this matter underscores its commitment to ensuring the long-term reliability and sustainability of essential utility services.
The PURC’s dedication to consumer advocacy is further evidenced by the impressive number of complaints it handled throughout the year. In 2024, the Ashanti regional office received a total of 1,101 complaints against the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and the Ghana Water Company Limited. Demonstrating its efficiency and commitment to resolving consumer issues, the PURC successfully resolved 1,050 of these complaints. This high resolution rate highlights the Commission’s effectiveness in mediating disputes and ensuring fair outcomes for both consumers and service providers.
The PURC’s intervention extended beyond financial recoveries and dispute resolution to encompass direct improvements in utility infrastructure and services. Their efforts led to the replacement of 31 faulty meters, ensuring accurate billing and consumer confidence in the metering system. Additionally, the ECG installed four new service connections and replaced 12 transformers, enhancing the reliability and capacity of the electricity grid. The Ghana Water Company also benefited from the PURC’s involvement, repairing 30 burst pipes and mitigating water loss and service interruptions. These tangible improvements in utility infrastructure directly contributed to a higher quality of service for consumers in the Ashanti Region.
The PURC’s success in 2024 is a testament to their dedication to protecting consumer rights and promoting a fair and efficient utility sector. By actively engaging with consumers, mediating disputes, and holding utility companies accountable, the PURC has established itself as a vital advocate for the public. The Commission’s proactive approach, coupled with its commitment to transparency and consumer education, has fostered a more balanced relationship between utility providers and consumers, ultimately contributing to a more reliable and sustainable utility landscape in the Ashanti Region. Their continued efforts are essential for ensuring that all consumers have access to affordable, reliable, and high-quality utility services.
