Controversial energy levy Bill approved

Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, introducing a GH¢1 ($98.92) levy on petroleum products, reports My Joy Online. The controversial Bill is intended to raise additional revenue to address the nation's crippling energy sector debt and ensure stable power supply. The Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, who introduced the Bill under a certificate of urgency, stated that the energy sector's total indebtedness stands at $3.1bn as of March 2025. He further explained that a minimum of $3.7bn is required to fully clear this debt, with an additional $1.2bn needed to procure essential fuel for thermal power generation throughout 2025. The Minister assured Parliament that the impact of the new levy on ex-pump prices would be ‘absorbed by the gains made from the strong performance of the Ghana Cedi’, meaning consumers would not experience an immediate price hike. However, the Minority Caucus vehemently opposed the Bill, describing it as an inappropriate burden on Ghanaians. Their resistance culminated in a walkout during the approval process, as they argued that the majority side lacked the requisite numbers to make a binding decision on the Bill.

Full My Joy Online report