The Ghana National Gas Company has made an urgent appeal to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission for an upward adjustment in gas transmission tariffs, warning that current rates are insufficient to sustain operations and fund critical projects.
The appeal was made during an inspection of the Atuabo Gas Processing Plant, where the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Judith Adjobah Blay, highlighted growing financial pressures facing the facility.
Addressing members of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Energy, Ms Blay explained that the current tariff structure does not reflect rising operational costs and the significant investments required to maintain and expand the plant.
“It is very necessary that we at Ghana Gas engage PURC to justify the expenditures and investments we are making, which warrant an increase, particularly in transmission tariffs,” she stated.
The Atuabo Gas Processing Plant plays a crucial role in Ghana’s energy sector, supplying processed gas to power enclaves such as Lekeadze and Aboadze. Officials say the facility requires continuous multi-million-dollar maintenance to prevent disruptions.
Ms Blay cautioned that maintaining the existing tariff regime could jeopardise the stability of the gas supply chain, potentially leading to power outages and disruptions to industrial activity.
“If Ghana Gas does not have sufficient funds to operate and maintain the plant, the consequences will be far more severe than a marginal increase in tariffs,” she warned.
While acknowledging that tariff increases may be unpopular, she stressed that they are necessary to ensure long-term reliability of the national grid.
The inspection by the Parliamentary Select Committee forms part of broader efforts to assess operational efficiency within the energy sector and address emerging challenges. The committee is expected to engage the PURC and the Ministry of Energy on the proposed adjustments.
Industry observers say the outcome of these discussions could have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s energy security and sustainability.
