The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission’s (PURC) Northern Regional Office says it played a critical role in resolving two major disputes involving utility services in Tamale during the first half of 2025.

In its mid-year review report, the office cited its timely intervention in restoring electricity to Sanzerigu, a community in Tamale that had been disconnected following interference with the low-voltage (LV) network by a local resident.

In another instance, the Commission helped mediate a conflict between Ghana Water Limited (GWL) and the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

The dispute centred around allegations that the GNFS contributed significantly to high non-revenue water losses.

The PURC’s engagement helped both parties reach a consensus, ensuring continued water access and safeguarding public safety operations.

The Commission also reported facilitating:

• The injection and replacement of six faulty transformers;
• The repair and replacement of 21 broken electricity poles, including 12 high-tension and 9 low-voltage ones.

These outcomes were part of a broader regulatory impact strategy aimed at improving reliability, reducing outages, and reinforcing accountability among service providers.

Going forward, the regional PURC says it plans to intensify its efforts against illegal connections and scale up capacity building for stakeholders.

It also aims to deepen partnerships with service providers and the media to boost awareness and enforcement of utility regulations.

According to the report released by Regional Manager, Ali Simon Jarana, the use of radio and social media to lodge complaints shows a growing awareness of consumer rights.

Among other activities, the PURC says it introduced customer-focused projects such as:

• “Weekend Complaint Resolution Booths” in Tamale and Savelugu, offering on-the-spot support for over 50 customers;
• “PURC @ A Glance” outreach using flyers, street activation, and TV/radio engagements;
• “Regulation @ A Glance” sessions with NEDCo staff, Ghana Water Limited workers, and journalists to demystify the L.I. 2413 regulatory instrument;
• The “Tamale In Focus” campaign to reduce commercial losses and unauthorised usage of electricity.