Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a GHS1 increase in the levy on petroleum products. The measure, according to the government, is aimed at raising an additional GHS5.7 billion to help reduce mounting debts in the energy sector and support stable power supply across the country.
Presenting the rationale behind the bill on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 3, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed that the country’s energy sector debt currently stands at $3.1 billion. He added that $3.7 billion is required to fully clear the arrears, with an extra $1.2 billion needed to procure fuel for thermal power generation in 2025.
The Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam MP assured Parliament that the impact of the new levy on ex-pump prices would be “absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana Cedi”, meaning consumers would not experience an immediate price hike.
However, the Minority Caucus strongly opposed the levy, describing it as inappropriate and ill-timed. They staged a walkout during the approval process, arguing that the Majority side lacked the required numbers to pass such a critical piece of legislation.
By: Ekow Annan/newsalertgh.com
