Ghanaians will pay more for electricity and water from July 1, 2026, after the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced an upward adjustment in utility tariffs. Electricity prices will increase by 3.49%, while water tariffs will rise by 0.85% under the latest review.
The new rates, announced in a statement issued on June 22, form part of PURC’s quarterly tariff review mechanism, which is designed to reflect changes in key economic and operational factors affecting utility service providers.
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Electricity And Water Tariffs To Rise From July 1
According to PURC, the approved adjustments will apply to all customer categories during the third quarter of 2026.
The Commission said the review seeks to maintain the real value of tariffs, support the financial viability of utility providers and help ensure the continued delivery of reliable services across the country.
While the increases are relatively modest, consumers can expect slightly higher electricity and water bills beginning next month.
Why PURC Increased Tariffs
PURC explained that several factors were taken into account during the review process.
These included movements in the exchange rate between the Ghana cedi and the US dollar, inflation trends, the electricity generation mix and the cost of fuel, particularly natural gas used in thermal power generation.
The Commission said it applied a weighted average exchange rate of GH¢11.2228 to one US dollar for the third quarter of 2026. This represents a 0.2% depreciation of the cedi compared with the previous quarter.
It also used a three-month average inflation rate of 3.43%, down from 4.17% recorded in the second quarter of the year.
Meanwhile, the weighted average cost of natural gas stood at US$7.9708 per MMBtu, reflecting a 1.58% decrease from the previous quarter.
Electricity Tariffs To Increase By 3.49%
Following its assessment of these economic indicators, PURC approved a 3.49% increase in electricity tariffs across all customer categories for the third quarter of 2026.
The Commission said the adjustment is necessary to help utility providers meet operational costs while maintaining service delivery standards.
Electricity tariffs are reviewed periodically to account for changes in the cost of generating and supplying power to consumers.
Water Tariffs Also See Upward Adjustment
PURC also approved a 0.85% increase in water tariffs.
According to the Commission, the same economic factors influencing electricity costs also affect the production, treatment and distribution of water across the country.
Although the increase is marginal, it means consumers will pay slightly more for water services from July 1.
PURC Assures Consumers Of Continued Oversight
PURC thanked stakeholders for their cooperation in implementing the quarterly tariff review framework.
The Commission further assured consumers that it would continue to monitor the performance of utility service providers to ensure improved service delivery and value for money.
It maintained that the quarterly review mechanism remains important for balancing consumer interests with the financial sustainability of companies responsible for supplying electricity and water.
