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PURC Issues Warning on Dangers and Penalties of Illegal Power Tampering

LATEST NEWS: PURC Warns Against Illegal Power Supply Tampering, Citing Security Risks

The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has issued a stern warning to the public, advising against any attempts to tamper with electricity connections on power poles, transformers, or meters belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). Such acts, according to PURC, contravene legislative regulations (L.I. 2413 and L.I. 1816) and pose serious security risks. Offenders caught altering their power supply phase could face immediate disconnection and fines.

At a recent workshop in Accra, Alhaji Jabaru Abukari, PURC’s Director of Regional Operations and Consumer Services, highlighted the dangers and legal implications of unauthorized adjustments to electricity phases. He stressed that engaging unqualified individuals to manipulate the power supply, especially during community power outages or “phase off” situations, is not only a criminal act but also a significant threat to public safety.

“Utility installations are state assets, and unauthorized tampering compromises national security,” Abukari stated. He emphasized that even official utility workers are required to have a work order before working on poles or other equipment. Abukari also noted that most incidents of illegal phase changes occur at night, driven by individuals seeking temporary relief from power outages by switching between phases without regard for the risks involved.

He further explained that utilities assign customers to specific phases to balance load and maintain stable electricity supply, cautioning that phase tampering disrupts this balance and can lead to broader supply issues.

The workshop, organized by PURC’s Greater Accra office, aimed to educate assembly and unit committee members from the Ga East district on the commission’s role and responsibilities. The event fostered a collaborative environment, allowing participants to engage with representatives from ECG and the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL). This educational effort was intended to build stronger relationships among stakeholders, promoting open communication and cooperation to support better utility management and customer service.

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