The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced increases in electricity and water tariffs, effective July 1, 2026. Electricity prices will rise by 3.49%, while water tariffs will go up by 0.85%. In a statement issued on June 22, the Commission explained that the adjustments are part of its quarterly review mechanism, designed to reflect changes in key operational factors such as the cedi‑dollar exchange rate, inflation, fuel costs—particularly natural gas—and the electricity generation mix.
PURC noted that the review aims to preserve the real value of tariffs, safeguard the financial viability of utility providers, and ensure reliable service delivery, while balancing consumer impact. For the third quarter of 2026, the Commission applied a weighted average exchange rate of GH¢11.2228 to US$1, representing a 0.2% depreciation of the cedi compared to the previous quarter.
It also used a three-month average inflation rate of 3.43 percent, down from 4.17 percent in the second quarter, and a weighted average cost of natural gas of US$7.9708 per MMBtu, representing a 1.58 percent decrease from the previous quarter.
Following its assessment of these indicators, PURC approved a 3.49 percent increase in electricity tariffs across all customer categories for the third quarter of 2026. The Commission also approved a marginal increase of 0.85 percent in water tariffs, citing the impact of the same economic indicators on the cost of water production and distribution.
PURC expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their cooperation in implementing the quarterly tariff review framework and assured consumers that it would continue to monitor the performance of utility service providers to ensure improved service delivery and value for money.
Source: Kenneth Awotwe Darko
