ICEG disagrees with Osafo Maafo's 'only energy minister can order dumsor timetable' comment

The Institute of Climate and Environmental Governance (ICEG) has expressed disagreement with recent statements made by Senior Presidential Advisor, Yaw Osafo-Maafo, regarding the authority to establish a dumsor timetable, attributing it solely to the Minister of Energy, Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh.

In a statement released on Wednesday, March 24, 2024, and signed by Kwesi Yamoah Abaidoo, Policy Lead for Climate Finance and Energy Transition, ICEG challenges Osafo-Maafo's stance. \

It argues that while recognizing the pivotal role of government agencies, including the Ministry of Energy, in managing energy affairs, it's crucial to highlight the mandate outlined in Section 3 of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission Act (Act 538). This section designates the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) with the responsibility of safeguarding the interests of both consumers and utility service providers.

ICEG asserts that PURC is entrusted with the authority to authorize the Electricity Company of Ghana to devise a dumsor timetable to alleviate the strain on consumers. Therefore, ICEG contends that this prerogative cannot be solely assigned to the Minister of Energy.

Below is the full statement:
For Immediate Release
ICEG Clarifies Statement Regarding Power Rationing (Dumsor) Timetable

The Institute of Climate and Environmental Governance (ICEG) has taken note of recent statements made by the Senior Presidential Advisor, Yaw Osafo-Maafo. These statements suggested that only the Energy Minister possesses the authority to order the publication of the power rationing (Dumsor) timetable. In light of the ensuing concerns, ICEG aims to provide clarity on this matter and underscore the importance of collaborative efforts and transparency in addressing the current energy challenges.

While acknowledging the critical role of government agencies, including the Ministry of Energy, in managing and coordinating energy-related activities, it is crucial to emphasize the provisions of Section 3 of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission Act (Act 538). According to this section, the PURC (Public Utilities Regulatory Commission) is tasked with safeguarding the interests of both consumers and utility service providers.

Additionally, the PURC is empowered to perform any other functions incidental to its primary responsibilities. Given that the publication of the Dumsor Timetable directly impacts consumers’ activities and interests, the PURC has the authority to order its release. Contrary to the Senior Presidential Advisor’s statement, the decision to publish the Dumsor timetable is not solely within the purview of the Energy Minister. Instead, it necessitates a coordinated approach involving input from various institutions, including the PURC, ECG (Electricity Company of Ghana), IPGs (Independent Power Producers), and consumer representatives.

Importantly, Section 4 of the PURC Act (Act 538) underscores the independence of the Commission. As such, the PURC operates autonomously and is not subject to the direction or control of any individual or authority in the execution of its functions.

The Institute of Climate and Environmental Governance (ICEG) remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in tackling the energy challenges facing our nation. We recognize that accurate and timely information is crucial to empower consumers, facilitate effective planning, and mitigate the impact of energy disruptions on businesses and communities.

In light of recent developments, ICEG urgently calls for increased collaboration and communication among all stakeholders. It is imperative that we address the underlying issues contributing to the power rationing (Dumsor). By working together, we can find sustainable solutions that ensure reliable and affordable energy for all Ghanaians.

Signed:
Kwesi Yamoah Abaidoo
Policy Lead, Climate Finance and Energy Transition