PURC interventions improve utility services in Bono, Ahafo Regions

The Bono Regional Office of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has intensified its regulatory oversight and engagement with utility providers, resulting in improved electricity and water service delivery across the Bono and Ahafo regions.

A major achievement is the integration of 2,036 Self-Help Electrification Project (SHEP) meters into the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) billing system. The intervention is expected to boost revenue mobilisation and reduce commercial losses from unbilled electricity consumption.

In 2026, 33 transformer injection projects, valued at GH¢4.77 million, have been completed out of 45 planned interventions. Additionally, 263 high- and low-voltage poles have been replaced at a cost of GH¢989,000, while 15 transformers have been upgraded at GH¢120,600.

An ongoing major project is the upgrade of the Berekum Primary Substation transformer from 10MVA to 20MVA. Transformer injection projects are also underway at Asuakwa, Kyeremasu and Dumasua, with civil works completed.

The PURC has also intervened in electricity supply challenges, including an underground cable fault at the Berekum Control Room that affected Berekum and surrounding communities. The intervention facilitated corrective measures, including the installation of a new breaker.

The Commission further facilitated the replacement of 485 faulty electricity meters at a cost of GH¢1.54 million, aimed at improving billing accuracy and reducing consumer complaints.

Water supply
On water supply, the PURC inspected the Ghana Water Limited (GWL) Abesim Headworks following persistent shortages in Sunyani. The inspection identified rising turbidity in raw water sources as a major constraint to water production and distribution.

GWL has also introduced a Low-Income Customer Support Department (LICSD) to improve access to safe and affordable water in underserved communities, with more than 600 consumers benefiting so far.

The interventions have contributed to improved revenue collection, with GWL recording a 97 per cent collection rate and NEDCo 96.65 per cent at mid-year.

Consumer awareness
To strengthen consumer awareness, the PURC conducted 95 public education engagements on utility services, consumer rights and responsibilities, complaint procedures and the Commission’s regulatory role.

More than 5,000 new electricity connections have also been completed, while NEDCo has introduced an online application system to simplify the connection process.

The PURC Bono Regional Office said the interventions demonstrate its commitment to consumer-focused regulation and improving the reliability, efficiency and accountability of electricity and water services in the Bono and Ahafo regions.