The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has completed a comprehensive replacement program, swapping out all post-paid, non-smart prepaid, and defective meters with new MMS-compliant smart prepaid meters.
According to the power distribution company, this meter replacement initiative is part of their Loss Reduction Programme (LRP), designed to implement smart metering systems and enhance energy accounting.
These upgraded meters are intended to minimize system losses, ensure more precise readings, and resolve the billing inconsistencies that customers experienced with previous meter models.
However, customers have expressed frustration over frequent visits to ECG offices and agents to purchase power credits to maintain electricity supply and keep their appliances running, citing high power consumption rates.
Financial records shared by customers reveal varying monthly electricity expenses, with some paying around GH₵1,700 while others average GH₵500.
Some social media users have suggested that the new meter installation program is a government strategy to exploit Ghanaian citizens.
They opined that the new meters were draining Ghanaians financially as huge amounts are needed to keep their lights on.
“They changed my meter just one month ago and this is what I have spent so far. No be say I get cold store for my house oh!! No be say I dey 3 bedroom apartment. Just me alone!!! If I do illegal connection may3 bone?” a tweep named Kobe Boujee said.
Another stated, “Is ECG using the new meter to milk money from the citizens? Ei.“
Some tweeps are considering illegal connections to heave a sigh of relief as paying high amounts for electricity is unbearable.
Meanwhile, the new meters are said to be equipped with anti-tampering mechanisms to help curb illegal connections and reduce losses due to electricity theft.
