Ghana will today, July 16 begin enforcing a revised energy sector levy, part of efforts to stabilise the country’s energy finances and address mounting sector-related debt.
The new charges, introduced under the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act 1141), include a GHS 1 fee applied to selected petroleum products. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is overseeing implementation, following earlier delays intended to monitor global market conditions and shield consumers from price volatility.
Government officials say the decision to activate the levy was reached after consultations between the Finance and Energy Ministries and a review of key economic data.
The revised levy increases the Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL), a move authorities say will help fund infrastructure projects and repay legacy debts that have weighed heavily on the sector.
“This is part of a broader economic strategy to stabilise public finances and ensure reliable energy supply,” the government said in a statement.
Ghana’s energy sector has faced persistent challenges, including inefficiencies, under-recovery of costs, and rising liabilities. The new levy is expected to generate additional revenue to support sector reforms and improve financial sustainability.