PURC maintains electricity, water tariffs for Fourth Quarter 2026

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has decided to keep electricity and water tariffs unchanged for the fourth quarter of 2026. The unaltered tariffs will start from October 1, 2026, and remain in effect until December 31, 2026. PURC communicated this decision to consumers on September 24, stating that the existing tariffs from the third quarter will remain the same for the fourth quarter.

The Commission's choice to maintain tariffs follows a quarterly review, which evaluates key factors affecting utility service delivery. This review considers the Ghana cedi-US dollar exchange rate, domestic inflation, the electricity generation mix, and the cost of natural gas for thermal plants. The PURC applied a weighted average exchange rate of GH¢11.5646 to US$1, reflecting a 3.04% decrease from the third-quarter rate of GH¢11.2228.

Inflation for the quarter is projected at 4.97%, up from 3.43% in the previous quarter, indicating a 44.89% increase. The cost of natural gas declined by 1.67% from US$7.9708 to US$7.8379 per MMBtu. Changes in electricity generation mix, with an expected increase in hydro power and a decrease in thermal generation, influenced the Commission's decision.

The combined effect of these factors led the Commission to maintain electricity tariffs at their current levels. PURC expressed appreciation for stakeholders' support in conducting quarterly tariff reviews, which aid in addressing operational changes beyond utility providers' control. The Commission also recognizes consumers' concerns about service quality and remains committed to monitoring the regulated providers' operations to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and benchmarks, promoting value for money and improved service delivery.