The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has organized an educational programme for the residents of Adaklu Hlihave in the Adaklu District of the Volta Region, aimed at raising awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities, regulatory interventions, and energy conservation practices.

The event, which was facilitated by the Assembly member of the area, Hon. Gershon Kpakpadzi, sought to bridge the information gap between the Commission and utility consumers.

The interactive session offered residents an in-depth understanding of the PURC’s mandate and its role in regulating public utilities. Participants were educated on their rights as consumers, including the process of filing complaints, the expectations regarding service quality, and ways to manage their utility consumption efficiently. The programme also emphasized practical energy conservation tips, which, if adopted, could lead to cost savings.

However, concerns about billing issues dominated the session. Several residents voiced frustrations, with one customer sharing his ordeal of receiving an initial electricity bill of GHC 5,500, which further escalated to GHC 7,400 after he requested a review. Expressing his disbelief, the customer humorously asked whether he was unknowingly running a hotel, drawing laughter from the audience.

In response, the PURC assured attendees that such complaints would be thoroughly investigated and encouraged all affected customers to officially file their grievances for prompt resolution. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fairness and transparency in utility billing and service delivery.

The residents expressed their gratitude for the programme, describing it as timely and informative.

Many pledged to apply the knowledge gained to better manage their utility usage while calling on the PURC to maintain regular engagements to keep consumers informed and empowered.

As the session concluded, there was an overwhelming sense of optimism among participants that the information provided would not only help them handle future utility issues but also promote accountability within the utility sector.