The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is set to roll out a major operational exercise, titled “Operation Keep the Lights On,” from January 15 to January 31, 2025. This initiative, which spans all ECG operational areas, is designed to address longstanding challenges, including arrears recovery, meter inspections, and enforcement of disconnection regulations.
The exercise underscores ECG’s commitment to ensuring efficient service delivery and maintaining its mandate as the country's leading electricity distributor. The company has called on customers and stakeholders to cooperate fully with the campaign to achieve its objectives.
Goals of the Operation
“Operation Keep the Lights On” seeks to tackle several issues that have hindered ECG’s operations in recent years. Key among these are unpaid electricity bills, illegal self-reconnection, and faulty or tampered prepaid meters.
According to ECG, these challenges not only affect its revenue collection but also impact its ability to provide reliable electricity supply to consumers. By recovering arrears and ensuring compliance with regulations, the company aims to create a more sustainable framework for electricity distribution across Ghana.
Addressing Illegal Self-Reconnection
One of the central aspects of the initiative is the crackdown on illegal self-reconnection practices. ECG emphasized that such activities are in direct violation of Legislative Instrument (LI) 2413, which governs electricity usage and regulations in Ghana.
“Self-reconnection is illegal and poses significant risks to both the individuals involved and the entire community,” an ECG representative stated. “We are urging customers to refrain from such practices and instead engage with our offices to resolve any disconnection issues legally.”
The company further warned that individuals found engaging in illegal self-reconnection will face strict penalties in accordance with the law.
Limited Services During the Operation
To focus fully on the operation, ECG has announced that its regional and district offices will provide only limited essential services during the two-week period. Customers seeking assistance or services unrelated to the initiative may experience delays, as the company prioritizes the success of the campaign.
“This temporary adjustment is necessary to ensure the effective implementation of the operation,” the ECG representative explained. “We appreciate the public’s understanding and patience as we work to achieve our goals.”
Call for Public Cooperation
ECG has called on the public to support the operation by granting its personnel access to inspect and address issues related to electricity installations. The company emphasized that its mandate includes the legal right to access installations for maintenance, inspection, and compliance purposes.
“We rely on the cooperation of our customers to carry out this important exercise,” the company noted. “By working together, we can ensure a more reliable and efficient electricity supply for all.”
Public Awareness Campaign
In the lead-up to the launch of the operation, ECG has intensified its public awareness efforts to educate customers about the objectives and procedures of the exercise. Through media announcements, community engagements, and social media campaigns, the company aims to foster transparency and build trust among its customers.
ECG has also encouraged customers with outstanding bills to settle their arrears promptly to avoid disconnection during the operation. For those facing financial difficulties, the company has advised engaging with its offices to explore possible payment arrangements.
The Broader Impact of the Initiative
The success of “Operation Keep the Lights On” is expected to have a significant impact on ECG’s financial standing and operational efficiency. By recovering arrears and addressing illegal practices, the company hopes to generate the revenue needed to invest in infrastructure improvements and expand its services to underserved areas.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with ECG’s broader mission of enhancing electricity reliability and accessibility across the country. By addressing the root causes of revenue loss and operational inefficiencies, the company aims to build a more sustainable and customer-focused electricity distribution system.
Stakeholder Reactions
The announcement of the operation has elicited mixed reactions from stakeholders and the public. While many have commended ECG for taking proactive steps to address longstanding challenges, others have expressed concerns about the potential inconvenience to customers.
Some critics have urged the company to prioritize customer engagement and address issues such as faulty meters and billing discrepancies before enforcing disconnections.
“While the operation is a step in the right direction, ECG must also ensure that customers are not unfairly penalized due to systemic issues beyond their control,” one energy policy analyst noted.
Looking Ahead
As the January 15 launch date approaches, all eyes are on ECG to deliver on its promises and address the challenges that have plagued Ghana’s electricity distribution sector. The success of “Operation Keep the Lights On” will depend largely on the company’s ability to execute the initiative effectively and maintain open communication with its customers.
For ECG, this operation represents more than just a revenue recovery exercise; it is an opportunity to rebuild public trust and reaffirm its commitment to delivering reliable and efficient electricity services. By addressing the root causes of inefficiency and fostering greater accountability, ECG is taking a crucial step toward achieving its vision of a brighter and more sustainable future for Ghana.
Final Appeal
ECG has reiterated its call for customers to cooperate with the initiative and comply with the company’s regulations. Customers are encouraged to report any issues or concerns to their nearest ECG office and to engage with the company’s public awareness campaigns to stay informed about the operation.
The company also expressed gratitude to its staff and stakeholders for their continued support, emphasizing that the success of the initiative will depend on collective effort and collaboration.
“Together, we can keep the lights on and build a brighter future for all,” the ECG representative concluded.
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