GSA strengthens electricity meter testing to protect consumers and improve energy reliability

The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) is enhancing its electricity meter testing, transformer calibration, and quality assurance services to bolster energy reliability, shield consumers, and facilitate Ghana's shift towards clean energy. Director-General Professor George Agyei emphasized that precise measurement and equipment testing are pivotal for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Seven, which aims to guarantee everyone access to affordable, dependable, sustainable, and modern energy.

He spoke at the 2026 World Standards Day Grand Durbar held at Takoradi Technical University, under the theme "Shared Vision for a Better World – Spotlight on SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy."

Agyei highlighted that issues like insufficient power supply might stem from standards failures, including inaccurate meters, malfunctioning transformers, and inferior solar panels. He stressed that energy affordability hinges on accurate measurement, reliability on testing, and clean energy on meeting verified performance standards for imported and manufactured technology.

Takoradi became one of three national electricity meter testing centers, alongside Accra and Kumasi, to ensure Western Region residents benefit from the program. Under the National Electricity Meter Testing Programme, every meter installed in Ghana must undergo testing and certification by the GSA, a free and government-financed service under the Standards Authority Act, 2022 (Act 1078). Existing meters must comply with requirements by December 31, 2028.

The Authority is also developing a National Transformer Testing and Calibration Centre aligned with International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and ISO/IEC 17025 standards to ensure transformers supplying homes and industries meet international benchmarks before potential failures. The GSA's 24-Hour Services Directorate will offer round-the-clock testing, inspection, certification, calibration, and verification services, bolstering the Government's 24-Hour Economy agenda by enabling timely access to quality assurance services by ports, factories, and exporters.

Agyei called for stronger collaboration among regulatory agencies, industry, and stakeholders, stressing that standards are crucial for fostering public trust in products and services. He urged industry players to view compliance as an investment for market access and competitiveness, and encouraged students to pursue careers in engineering, metrology, and standards development to support clean energy and industrial growth.

Agyei announced Ghana's hosting of the 33rd General Assembly of the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) in Accra in July 2027, marking the organization's Golden Jubilee. He expressed Ghana's commitment to contributing to Africa's standards development under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to enhance trade competitiveness.

The GSA's new Concrete and Ceramic Tiles Laboratory, intended to strengthen building material quality assurance and offer additional protection for builders and users, was also commissioned during the event. Agyei concluded by urging stakeholders to support the Authority's efforts to uphold quality and safety, emphasizing the collective commitment required to ensure products and services meet established standards.