ECG Disconnects Ghana Water Company Over GH₵1 Billion Debt, Water Supply at Risk

In a major development affecting essential utilities in Ghana, the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has disconnected power supply to the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) over an outstanding debt exceeding GH₵1 billion. The drastic action, which took place on June 17, 2025, is part of ECG’s aggressive national revenue mobilization effort aimed at recovering arrears owed by key state institutions. According to ECG, GWCL has consistently failed to meet its payment obligations, prompting this decisive step after several warnings and failed negotiations.

The disconnection has raised widespread concerns about the immediate impact on water supply services across the country. Since GWCL depends heavily on electricity to power its water treatment and pumping stations, the lack of electricity could result in water shortages in major cities and towns. In some regions, like Tamale and Volta, previous disconnections due to similar debts had already led to temporary disruptions, and citizens fear a repeat of such incidents on a larger scale. The company has yet to officially respond to the current action, but insiders indicate talks may be underway to restore power through a structured payment plan.

This situation highlights the financial challenges facing public utility providers in Ghana. While ECG is under pressure to recover funds to sustain its operations, GWCL also struggles with revenue collection issues, with customer debts running into hundreds of millions. Analysts argue that the standoff reflects deeper systemic inefficiencies that must be urgently addressed. As the public braces for possible water disruptions, many are calling on the government to intervene and ensure continued access to both electricity and clean water services without compromising operational sustainability.

Sources: Ghana Web: https://www.ghanaweb.com/, ECG Ghana: https://ecg.com.gh, GWCL: https://gwcbilling.com/