The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has called on the government to explore more innovative and sustainable solutions to resolve Ghana’s power sector debt, rather than shifting the financial burden onto fuel consumers through a new levy.

As part of efforts to pay down mounting debts in the energy sector, the government introduced a GH¢1 levy on every litre of fuel sold at the pump. The measure, which has already been signed into law by President John Mahama, has drawn widespread criticism for lacking proper stakeholder engagement—particularly with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). In response to public backlash, the Ghana Revenue Authority has postponed the implementation date to June 16, 2025.

Speaking to Joy Business, COPEC Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah voiced strong opposition to the levy, warning that it would worsen the financial strain already felt by Ghanaians.

“It appears we’ve allowed inefficiencies and mismanagement in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), and now consumers are being asked to cover the shortfall through new levies,” Amoah stated. “This is not just unfair—it is unsustainable.”

Mr. Amoah outlined key drivers of the sector’s debt, including transmission losses, poor revenue collection, and mismanagement of funds—particularly by the ECG. He argued that addressing these systemic challenges is critical to resolving the crisis.

“The debt didn’t just happen,” he said. “Transmission losses, ineffective revenue collection, and how those funds are used have all contributed to the current situation. These issues need urgent attention.”

He further urged government authorities to hold ECG staff accountable for any acts of corruption or misconduct contributing to financial losses.

“There must be consequences for procurement breaches, corruption, and blatant disregard for financial prudence. We cannot continue to let inefficiencies fester while pushing the cost onto consumers,” Amoah stressed.

COPEC is urging the government to refocus efforts on tackling internal inefficiencies within the power sector rather than resorting to stopgap levies that increase the cost of living for ordinary citizens.