Keta Residents Voice Strong Opposition to Proposed PURC Tariff Hikes

Residents in Keta Municipality of the Volta Region have expressed deep frustration over the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission's (PURC) proposed tariff adjustments for electricity and water. Many fear the increases will exacerbate economic hardships in an area already vulnerable to tidal waves and flooding. Community leaders and ordinary citizens voiced concerns during public hearings, highlighting the impact on low-income households and small businesses.

The proposed hikes come amid ongoing recovery efforts from coastal erosion, with residents arguing that basic utilities should not become more burdensome. Local assembly members have called for a review, emphasizing the need for subsidies in flood-prone areas. PURC officials noted that the adjustments aim to cover rising operational costs and infrastructure investments by utility providers like ECG and Ghana Water Limited.

Critics, including civil society groups, contend that the timing is insensitive given recent floods affecting parts of the region. They urge the government to explore alternative revenue sources rather than passing costs directly to consumers. Public feedback from the Volta hearings will inform the final MYTO decisions for 2025–2030.

Stakeholders in Keta have petitioned for targeted interventions, such as lifeline tariff expansions for vulnerable communities. The issue has sparked broader debates on energy affordability across Ghana, with similar sentiments echoed in other regions.

As discussions continue, residents remain hopeful that their inputs will lead to moderated increases. Local authorities have pledged to engage further with PURC to balance sustainability with social equity in the Volta Region.