Energy sector players demand transparency on GH₵1 fuel levy

Stakeholders in Ghana’s energy sector are calling for accountability and transparency regarding the GH₵1 fuel levy, urging the government to explain how the funds are being collected and used to address persistent revenue and supply shortfalls.

On July 16, 2025, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) directed Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to begin charging a GH₵1-per-litre Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy on all refined petroleum products.

The levy was introduced to generate additional revenue for the energy sector specifically to finance fuel purchases for thermal power plants and repay outstanding debts within the sector.

However, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) is demanding clarity on the total amount collected so far and how those funds have been utilised.

Executive Secretary of COPEC, Duncan Amoah, has urged the government to provide a full update on the levy in the 2026 Budget, while also prioritising investment in a second gas processing plant to enhance Ghana’s energy security.

“The economy seems to have adjusted to accommodate the levy. But it must be properly accounted for, and we expect the Finance Minister to reflect it in the 2026 Budget.

“We also want to see progress on the Train II gas processing project to complement Atuabo, as it will save the economy significantly,” Mr Amoah noted.

Meanwhile, in the downstream petroleum sector, fuel prices have dropped slightly during the first pricing window of November, helped by a stable cedi and favorable global petroleum prices.