Local business owners in Adidome, within the Central Tongu District of the Volta Region, are urging the management of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) to urgently address frequent power outages in the area.

In a press statement issued by the office of the Assembly Member for the area, Guggisberg Fiagbenu, on behalf of the affected residents and business owners, several challenges arising from the unreliable electricity supply were outlined.

One of the key issues highlighted was the payment of estimated bills instead of actual bills. According to the residents, since the Akosombo Dam spillage disaster in 2023, they have been forced to pay estimated bills, which they believe are higher than their actual consumption.

The situation is even more difficult for those who were victims of the flood disaster. The locals also claimed they lack proper education on how to use the ECG virtual platform, and whenever they lodge complaints, ECG directs them to use the mobile application.

Another major concern raised was the lack of communication and prior notice before power cuts. In the statement, it was mentioned that these frequent power outages are severely affecting local businesses, with approximately 49% of businesses remaining non-operational daily.

Residents also alleged that some ECG staff in the area are guilty of misconduct, using an unfriendly approach and inappropriate language when residents inquire about the issues.

As a result, the residents are giving ECG a 14-day ultimatum to resolve these issues and restore consistent power supply to Adidome and its surrounding areas.

They are demanding that ECG provide prior notice before power cuts, so businesses and residents can make necessary preparations. Additionally, they are calling for ECG to organise sensitisation programmes on the use of their virtual platforms and to take disciplinary action against staff who engage in misconduct.