The Public Utilities and Regulatory Commission (PURC) has intensified its public education on tariffs for residents, businesses, and other stakeholders at Koforidua, in the Eastern Region.
In one of its engagements with the public in the municipality, the commission met and interacted with students, staff, and management at a forum at the Koforidua Technical University.
This interaction aimed to educate students of the University on the PURC tariff process and enhance the student’s understanding of how utility tariffs are determined and regulated in Ghana.
Dr. Ishmael Ackah, PURC’s Executive Secretary, provided a complete explanation of the tariff-setting process, which included examining cost drivers of utility service providers, holding public hearings, and incorporating public feedback for decision-making.
Participants were shown real-life examples of how PURC conducts cost reviews and public consultations to ensure a fair and balanced tariff structure.
Dr. Ackah said there was a need for the Commission to set a fair price for the services rendered and emphasized the need for young professionals to be aware of the tariff process and its implications on the country’s economy.
Speaking to the media, the Executive Secretary of PURC gave a brief insight into the commission’s functions in its tariff decision-making process.
He also revealed that major challenges faced by the GWC in the Eastern Region include the destruction of pipelines during road construction, customer debt, and illegal connections.
The Vice Chancellor of Koforidua Technical University, Professor David Kofi Essumang, for his part, stressed that the contribution of second-cycle education towards the country’s economy cannot be underestimated, stating that the session proved to be a valuable learning experience for them.
He commended PURC for empowering them to become informed citizens and potential future leaders in Ghana’s utility sector.
He lamented the huge utility bills of the University and appealed to the PURC to consider offering special rates for institutions like KTU, as they are training and transforming many Ghanaians lives.
