Afenyo-Markin demands ECG reforms to cut tariffs, support 24-hour economy

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has urged comprehensive reforms at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to reduce electricity costs and support Ghana's aim for a 24-hour economy. According to Afenyo-Markin, government must address key issues within the power sector such as revenue leakages, illegal connections, and consumers failing to pay for the electricity they use.

He believes that repeatedly increasing electricity tariffs to fix these sectoral inefficiencies is not a sustainable strategy. Speaking to journalists, the Effutu Member of Parliament suggested the government should pursue reforms that enhance efficiency and lower the cost of electricity for both households and businesses. He pointed out illegal connections and unpaid bills as major obstacles that require immediate attention.

Afenyo-Markin warned against relying solely on tariff increases to address ECG's financial problems, arguing that such a move would increase the cost of doing business and deter investment. He emphasized that affordable and reliable electricity would create a more favorable environment for businesses to operate longer hours, expand production, and generate jobs, which is crucial for the government's 24-hour economy initiative.

Afenyo-Markin questioned whether adequate structures have been put in place to back the implementation of this policy. He cautioned that policy announcements and ambitious plans would not suffice unless practical challenges businesses face are addressed. He urged the government to build upon reforms started by the previous administration and focus on measures that would improve efficiency within the power sector.

Afenyo-Markin also criticized the excessive bureaucracy surrounding the 24-hour economy programme, insisting that the government must prioritize conditions that would enable businesses to function effectively around the clock. He emphasized that improving the power sector, reducing electricity costs, and ensuring a reliable supply should be key foundations for making the 24-hour economy a reality.