PURC Resolves 982 Utility Complaints In Ashanti

The Ashanti Regional Office of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) resolved 982 out of 1,208 complaints lodged against the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Ghana Water Limited (GWL) during the first half of 2026.

The figure represents an 81.29 percent complaint resolution rate, according to the Commission’s Mid-Year 2026 Regional Performance Report.

The report revealed that ECG recorded the highest number of complaints, receiving 1,116 cases, representing 92.38 percent of the total complaints, while Ghana Water Limited accounted for 92 complaints, representing 7.61 percent.

Out of the ECG complaints, 918 were resolved, while 64 of the GWL complaints were successfully addressed during the period under review.

The Commission also secured GH¢108,969.40 in billing and payment adjustments in favour of consumers after investigating complaints against the two utility providers.

In addition, PURC recovered GH¢55,664.74 from defaulting consumers on behalf of the utility companies.

As part of efforts to improve utility service delivery, the regional office facilitated the replacement of damaged utility infrastructure, including electricity poles, transformers, faulty meters and burst water pipes.

According to the report, eight damaged electricity poles were replaced at a cost of GH¢33,424, restoring power supply to about 824 consumers.

The Commission also facilitated the replacement of three faulty electricity meters and the installation of 13 delayed electricity service connections at a total cost of GH¢20,184, benefiting 144 consumers.

Furthermore, four 200kVA transformers were replaced at a cost of GH¢480,000, improving electricity supply for approximately 3,400 consumers.

On the water supply front, 19 burst pipes were repaired at an estimated cost of GH¢22,800, restoring water supply to about 2,014 consumers.

Overall, the interventions involved an estimated investment of GH¢556,408, directly benefiting 6,382 consumers across the Ashanti Region.

The report also highlighted a number of consumer education and outreach programmes undertaken by the Commission during the period.

Under the “Tell PURC” initiative, officials visited households in Dunkwa Ayanfuri, Asafo, Bantama, Manso Atwedie, Jacobu, Akrokerri and Adobewura to educate residents on their rights and responsibilities while receiving feedback on utility services.

The Commission also engaged traditional authorities and residents of Bodwesango through its “PURC @ the Palace” initiative to sensitise them on the Commission’s mandate, complaint resolution mechanisms, meter acquisition processes, consumer rights and energy and water conservation.

As part of the “PURC @ the Bus Terminal” programme, passengers and commercial drivers at the Asante Mampong and Nsuta bus terminals were educated on consumer rights, the obligations of utility providers and the procedures for lodging complaints.

The Commission further extended its “PURC Market Connect” campaign to traders at the Nyinahin and Asuofia markets to promote awareness of utility regulations, responsible consumption and prompt payment of utility bills.

According to the report, these initiatives have enhanced public awareness of the Commission’s mandate and encouraged consumers to seek redress through the appropriate channels whenever they encounter challenges with utility service providers.