PURC Increases Electricity Tariff by 3.49%, Water by 0.85% Effective July 1

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced upward adjustments in utility tariffs, with electricity rates increasing by 3.49% and water tariffs by 0.85% effective July 1, 2026.

The Commission said the quarterly review was carried out in line with its mandate to adjust tariffs every three months to reflect changes in key operational factors beyond the control of utility service providers.

These factors include the Ghana Cedi to US Dollar exchange rate, domestic inflation, electricity generation mix, and the cost of natural gas used for thermal power generation.

PURC explained that the adjustments are necessary to maintain the real value of existing tariffs, ensure the financial viability of utility providers, and guarantee continued service delivery while considering the impact on consumers.

In its analysis for the third quarter of 2026, PURC applied a weighted average exchange rate of GHS11.2228 to US$1.00, reflecting a 0.2% depreciation of the Cedi from the second quarter rate of GHS11.1931 to US$1.00. The Commission also used a three-month average inflation rate of 3.43% for April 1 to June 19, 2026, a 17.14% downward revision from the previous quarter’s 4.14%.

The weighted average cost of natural gas was set at US$7.9708 per MMBtu, representing a 1.58% downward adjustment from US$8.0988 per MMBtu.

The hydro-thermal generation mix remained unchanged at 20.90% hydro and 79.10% thermal.

The PURC expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their support in implementing quarterly tariff reviews under its Rate Setting Guidelines.

It said it will continue to monitor operations of regulated service providers and hold them accountable to regulatory standards to ensure value for money and improved quality of service.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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