The recent water and electricity tariff increases by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) have left some residents in Sunyani, the Bono Regional capital, lamenting their impact.
These concerns arise in the wake of the 4.22% increase in electricity tariffs and the 1.18% increase in water tariffs, which took effect on September 1, 2023, affecting average end-user tariffs for non-lifeline residential consumers.
Residents are already grappling with financial challenges in a difficult economic environment, and they fear that the recent tariff hikes will exacerbate their struggles.
Voicing their discontent over the tariff increases, they have appealed to the government to reconsider the decision, as it would result in a higher cost of living and further hardships.
Nana Kwame Asamoah, a long-time Sunyani resident, expressed how the tariff hikes are affecting ordinary people like himself, given the current challenging economic conditions. He mentioned that the increased costs of electricity and water are becoming unbearable, causing financial strain for many.
Eno Mary called on the government to focus on improving the country’s economic situation before approving any future tariff adjustments. She emphasized that they cannot afford to pay higher bills during these difficult times.
Agya Oppong criticized the PURC for consistently favoring utility providers, despite poor service delivery, and failing to address consumers’ concerns and hardships. He believes that any tariff increase during these challenging times is regrettable.