Ghana's regulator faces backlash over July 2026 utility tariff hikes

On July 1 2026 the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) lifted electricity tariffs by 3.49 % and water tariffs by 0.85 %, marking the fifth utility price increase in 18 months under the current administration. Member of Parliament Sammi Awuku condemned the move, saying it adds “another financial pressure on households and businesses already grappling with recent flooding, intermittent power outages and rising living costs,” and questioned why the increases continue despite official claims of a stronger economy.

The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) also urged the regulator to suspend the hike, noting that global oil prices have begun to fall after the end of the US‑Iran war. AGI Economic Affairs Committee chair Eric Defoe warned that the 3.5 % electricity increase could raise production costs for manufacturers by as much as 5‑10 % and argued that the timing was “wrong” because fuel‑price components of the tariff formula should be reassessed before any rise is applied.