The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has announced an upward adjustment in electricity and water tariffs for the third quarter of 2026, citing changes in key economic and operational indicators that affect utility service delivery.
Under the new tariff regime, electricity tariffs will increase by 3.49 percent, while water tariffs will go up by 0.85 percent, effective July 1, 2026.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Commission said the adjustments were part of its quarterly tariff review mechanism, which is designed to reflect fluctuations in factors beyond the control of utility service providers, including exchange rates, inflation, fuel costs, and the country’s electricity generation mix.
According to PURC, the quarterly review is intended to preserve the real value of tariffs and ensure the financial sustainability of utility companies while balancing the interests of consumers.
Key Factors Behind the Adjustment
The Commission noted that the Ghana cedi recorded a slight depreciation against the US dollar during the review period. The weighted average exchange rate used for the third quarter was GH¢11.2228 to US$1, compared to GH¢11.1931 to US$1 in the second quarter, representing a 0.2 percent depreciation.
Meanwhile, average inflation for the period from April 1 to June 19, 2026, declined to 3.43 percent, down from 4.17 percent in the previous quarter.
The weighted average cost of natural gas, a major input in thermal power generation, also fell by 1.58 percent from US$8.0988 per MMBtu to US$7.9708 per MMBtu.
PURC further indicated that the country’s electricity generation mix remained unchanged, with 20.9 percent generated from hydro sources and 79.1 percent from thermal plants, the same ratio applied during the second quarter.
Electricity Tariffs
Following its assessment of the economic indicators, the Commission approved a 3.49 percent increase across all electricity consumer categories.
The adjustment will affect residential, non-residential and special load tariff customers. Lifeline consumers, who use between 0 and 30 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month, will also see the 3.49 percent increase reflected in their tariffs.
Water Tariffs
Water consumers will experience a comparatively lower adjustment, with tariffs increasing by 0.85 percent from July 1.
Maintaining Utility Services
PURC emphasized that the quarterly tariff review process is necessary to support the operational and financial viability of utility providers, enabling them to continue delivering reliable electricity and water services across the country.
The Commission assured consumers that tariff reviews are undertaken with careful consideration of their impact on households and businesses, while also ensuring that utility companies can meet their obligations and maintain service quality.
The new tariffs take effect nationwide on July 1, 2026.
