GH¢2 diesel relief will not burden taxpayers – Energy Ministry

The Ministry of Energy in Ghana has reassured citizens that a temporary price reduction of Gh¢2.00 per litre on diesel will not result in any additional financial strain on taxpayers. The government intends to fund this intervention by adjusting existing petroleum-related margins, levies and taxes within the current fuel pricing framework, rather than through new taxes or funds allocated to other sectors.

Richmond Rockson, the spokesperson for the Ministry, clarified this during an interview on Citi FM on Monday, August 3. He explained that the government will suspend or reduce certain margins and levies that would typically benefit the state and industry players to help consumers cope with escalating diesel prices. These adjustments include suspending or reducing some margins and levies, depending on the situation.

Rockson also addressed concerns that the relief package might deprive the power sector of crucial funding, emphasizing that electricity financing is managed through separate mechanisms and would not be impacted by the diesel relief. This decision follows President John Dramani Mahama's directive for a temporary Gh¢2.00 reduction in the regulatory margin on diesel, effective from Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

The one-month measure aims to provide relief to consumers, transport operators, businesses, and households, but it only applies to diesel and does not include any reduction for petrol.