Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has applied to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) for a 281 percent increase in its water tariff, proposing an upward review from GH¢5.28 per cubic metre to GH¢20.09 per cubic metre for the 2025–2029 regulatory period.
The utility company says the drastic adjustment is necessary to clear mounting debts and offset rising operational costs, particularly the expense of treating polluted raw water and the impact of foreign exchange volatility on imported chemicals and equipment.
At a public hearing, GWL’s Manager in Charge of Monitoring, Michael Klutse, warned that the current tariff levels were unsustainable.
“We cannot continue to deliver reliable services under the existing charges. This adjustment is necessary if we are to improve service delivery and meet future needs,” he said.
The application comes amid a wave of tariff demands from other utility providers. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has requested a 225 percent hike in its distribution charge, while the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) is seeking a 171 percent increase.
Both companies have also proposed a dedicated tariff to finance and maintain street lighting nationwide.
NEDCo has further urged the scrapping of the lifeline tariff, which cushions low-income households, insisting that the arrangement is no longer viable due to high fixed and variable costs.
The PURC is reviewing the proposals, which are expected to trigger intense public debate over affordability, cost recovery, and the sustainability of essential services.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
