Chorkor Resident Threatens Action Over High Costs of New ECG Prepaid Meters
Tension is brewing in Chorkor a coastal community in Accra following public outrage over the high costs associated with the new prepaid electricity meters installed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). A frustrated resident in a viral Facebook video expressed deep dissatisfaction with the new system accusing the authorities of making electricity increasingly unaffordable.
In the emotionally charged video the resident did not mince words stating that the charges from the newly installed meters were excessive and burdensome. He went as far as threatening to destroy the meters if no swift action was taken to address the concerns of the community.
“This is unfair to the poor, he lamented. We are suffering and now electricity too is being priced like gold. If they don’t fix this, I will break the meter.
His sentiments reflect the growing anger among many Ghanaians who are grappling with rising living costs and inconsistencies in utility services. The recent rollout of new ECG prepaid meters, while intended to improve electricity monitoring and revenue collection has faced backlash in several communities due to a number of reported issues.
Apart from the high cost per unit some users have complained about losing their remaining credit balances during the meter transition. Others have encountered technical malfunctions, such as meters freezing, failing to accept top-up cards, or displaying inaccurate readings.
This wave of complaints has triggered calls for greater transparency and accountability from ECG and the relevant government bodies. Many residents argue that the rollout was done without sufficient public education or consultation leading to widespread confusion and financial strain.
We deserve better communication and service, one user commented on Facebook. You can’t just come change our meters and expect us to pay more without explanation.
With frustration growing residents in Chorkor and other affected areas are calling on ECG and the Ministry of Energy to urgently investigate the situation and provide clear answers. They are also demanding that any technical issues be fixed, credit losses refunded, and pricing structures reviewed.
The Electricity Company of Ghana has yet to issue a formal response to these complaints but the voices from the ground suggest a need for immediate dialogue and resolution. As Ghana pushes forward with modernization in utility services it remains critical to ensure that citizens are not left behind or burdened in the process.