Local business owners in Adidome, within the North Tongu District of the Volta Region, are calling on the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to urgently address persistent power outages that are disrupting economic activities and livelihoods in the area.
A press statement from the office of the Assembly Member, Guggisberg Fiagbenu, outlined the numerous challenges residents and businesses face due to unreliable electricity supply. One of the major concerns raised is the use of estimated billing instead of actual meter readings. According to residents, since the Akosombo Dam spillage disaster they have been compelled to pay estimated bills, which they believe exceed their actual consumption. The situation has been particularly difficult for those affected by the flood disaster, who continue to struggle with financial recovery.
Additionally, residents claim they have not received proper education on how to use ECG’s virtual platform, making it difficult to lodge complaints or access relevant services. Those who attempt to seek redress are often directed to the mobile application, which many find challenging to navigate.
The statement further highlighted concerns over ECG’s lack of communication regarding power cuts. Frequent outages without prior notice are said to be severely affecting businesses, with nearly half of them unable to operate on a daily basis. Residents also alleged that some ECG staff in the area engage in misconduct, using inappropriate language and an unfriendly approach when responding to customer inquiries.
As frustrations mount, the residents and business owners have issued a 14-day ultimatum to ECG to address their concerns and restore a consistent power supply to Adidome and its surrounding communities. They are demanding that ECG provide timely notifications before power outages, allowing businesses and households to make necessary preparations. Additionally, they are calling for sensitization programmes on the use of ECG’s virtual platforms and disciplinary measures against staff accused of misconduct.
The residents warn that failure to act within the stipulated time could lead to further action from the affected communities, as they are determined to see improvements in electricity supply and customer service in the area.
