Collins Adomako-Mensah, a Member of Parliament and Deputy Ranking Member on the Energy Committee, has criticised the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC). He stated that the regulator has remained unusually silent on the recent power outages affecting Ghana. This lack of public communication from PURC is drawing strong disapproval from lawmakers.
The power disruptions are reportedly linked to a fire incident at a Ghana Grid Company (GRIDCo) facility near the Akosombo Dam. Additional power fluctuations are also due to ongoing transformer upgrade works in various locations. Adomako-Mensah argued that PURC, as the agency tasked with safeguarding utility consumers, should have actively engaged the public. It should have provided updates on the situation to ease public concern and manage expectations.
This situation highlights Ghana's ongoing challenges with power supply reliability. In 2024, PURC had previously sanctioned board members over similar power supply issues. Adomako-Mensah specifically referenced this past action. He questioned why the regulator has not taken a similar stance or issued any statements this time around. This silence contrasts with previous instances when a lack of communication led to regulatory action. His remarks were made on Channel One TV on May 2, 2026.
Mr. Adomako-Mensah expressed surprise at PURC's quietness. He noted that the commission had previously acted against officials for failing to provide a timetable for disruptions. This failure to communicate impacts not only consumers directly but also businesses that rely on stable electricity. Such unforeseen outages can disrupt production schedules and increase operational costs, affecting the broader economy.
The absence of clear communication from PURC creates uncertainty for citizens and businesses alike. Consumers are left to wonder about the cause and duration of the power fluctuations. Businesses face difficulties in planning their operations. They also struggle with potential losses due to unexpected power cuts. The regulator's role is crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring accountability among utility providers.
The situation underscores the critical need for transparent communication from regulatory bodies. It is essential during times of utility service instability. Regular updates from PURC would help manage public perception. It would also provide essential information for industries and households. Ensuring reliable power is a key factor for economic growth and stability in Ghana.
The energy sector in Ghana frequently faces challenges. These range from infrastructure maintenance to fuel supply issues. Past incidents, like the fire at the Akosombo substation, have demonstrated the fragility of the national power grid. The regulator's responsiveness is key to mitigating the impact of such events. The current silence from PURC is perceived as a failure in its statutory duty to inform and protect the public.