Political interference, not inefficiency, behind ECG’s losses – Energy expert

Energy Systems Specialist, Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, has dismissed claims that the Electricity Company of Ghana‘s (ECG) under-declaration of revenue is due to inefficiency or corporate mismanagement, arguing instead that political interference is the real issue.

Speaking to Joy Business, Dr. Apetorgbor, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Independent Power Producers (IPPs), stressed that ECG, as a state-owned enterprise, operates under political influence that often overrides its regulatory obligations.

“It dares not under-declare revenues unless emboldened by a stronger force—one that overrides its regulatory obligations,” he stated.

He explained that ECG’s financial struggles are not the result of poor internal management but rather the extent to which political directives shape its revenue decisions.

“Blaming ECG for under-declaring revenue is a misplaced argument that ignores the bigger picture,” he added.

Dr. Apetorgbor warned that unless ECG is granted full operational autonomy, its financial performance will remain dictated by political considerations rather than sound commercial principles.

“Ghana must choose to either allow ECG to function as a true utility business or continue the cycle of blame without addressing the root cause of the problem,” he concluded.