Residents in Ketu South Municipality will demonstrate against the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) on September 1, 2026. They protest persistent over-billing, estimated electricity bills, and delays in repairing faulty meters. This planned action highlights significant financial pressure on households and businesses in the region.
The demonstration, themed “Enough Is Enough! Stop the Over-Billing Now!”, seeks urgent action from ECG. Organisers demand that electricity bills reflect accurate meter readings. They also call for appropriate adjustments for those wrongly charged. The protest aims to draw attention to difficulties consumers face in getting accurate bills and resolving complaints.
This protest fits into a broader narrative of consumer dissatisfaction with utility services in Ghana. Similar complaints about billing irregularities have surfaced in other parts of the Volta Region. The issue of estimated billing has long been a point of contention between consumers and power distributors. This situation often leads to distrust and financial strain on the populace. The economic impact on small businesses, in particular, can be severe, affecting livelihoods and employment.
Mr. Edem Mensah Viglo, the group's convener, stated that residents receive excessive estimated bills without actual meter readings. He also cited unexplained charges and prolonged delays in meter repairs. Mr. Viglo highlighted instances where households with minimal appliances received bills between GHS 2,000 and GHS 5,000. Some customers reportedly accumulated bills approaching GHS 20,000 within a few months. These figures suggest a significant discrepancy between consumption and billing.
The situation has placed considerable financial pressure on households and businesses. Mr. Viglo noted that over-billing has led to the collapse of many personal businesses. This contributes to a rise in unemployment within the municipality. Some residents even reported receiving bills despite being disconnected for several months. These issues underscore the need for greater transparency and accountability from ECG.
The demonstration is expected to begin at Denu Junction. Participants will march through the Ketu South Municipality Assembly to the ECG office in Denu. Organisers intend to formally present their grievances to power company officials. Security agencies have been notified to ensure peace and order during the protest. This public display of discontent aims to force immediate intervention and accountability from ECG.
The planned demonstration coincides with growing concerns over electricity billing in the Volta Region. Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, has announced an independent investigation. This inquiry will address complaints of alleged over-billing and faulty meters in communities like Keta. The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the Energy Commission will conduct this investigation. This official response indicates the seriousness of the widespread complaints.
The upcoming inquiry and the September 1 demonstration will bring renewed attention to longstanding issues. These include estimated billing, meter accuracy, and consumer protection in the electricity sector. Decision-makers and markets will closely watch the outcomes of both the protest and the investigation. The resolution of these issues is crucial for consumer confidence and economic stability in the affected areas. A fair and transparent billing system is essential for both households and businesses to plan their finances effectively. Continued disputes could impact investment and economic growth in the region.