In the coastal communities of Anloga and Keta in the Volta Region of Ghana, residents have voiced grievances regarding what they perceive as insensitive billing practices by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
They claim that the irregular and excessive billing not only poses frustrations but also leads to significant disruptions in their daily routines and threatens the viability of local businesses.
During interviews with various residents, a prevailing sentiment surfaced: widespread discontent and disillusionment with the ECG’s billing procedures.
Numerous individuals recounted instances of receiving bills vastly surpassing their actual usage, with several noting abrupt surges in charges lacking explanation or justification.
Emmanuel Gbli, a local small business proprietor in Anloga, voiced his exasperation, stating, “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to sustain my business with these outrageous electricity bills. I’ve tried to reason with ECG officials but to no avail. It’s like they don’t care about the impact on us.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Martha, a resident of Keta, who lamented, “We are constantly living in fear of receiving our electricity bills. It’s like a lottery; you never know what amount they’ll come up with next. This uncertainty is suffocating both households and businesses alike.”
Community leaders have also added their voices to the grievances, condemning the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) for its perceived insensitivity and neglect. They contend that these billing practices not only destabilize the local economy but also diminish confidence in public utilities.
In reaction to the outcry, representatives from the ECG have recognized the complaints and pledged to conduct an investigation into the issue. Nonetheless, residents maintain a sense of skepticism, pointing to past assurances that have resulted in minimal observable improvements.
Villa Amore Beach Resort and Aborigines Beach Resort, alongside numerous other businesses, find themselves impacted by the exorbitant billing from ECG.
Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Public Relations Officer of ECG has reassured residents to stay calm as the company works to address the issue.