The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has warned the public about the illegal sale, distribution, and use of counterfeit meters in the Ashanti Region.
The warning follows recent seizures of substandard meters at the Dabala Checkpoint and Tech Junction. These meters, originating from Togo, were found during inspections of buses travelling from Aflao to Kumasi.
The ECG has expressed serious concerns about the proliferation of these fake meters, which do not conform to official standards.
ECG Ashanti-West General Manager Maxwell Dapaah emphasized that meters acquired outside the official ECG channels are illegal and warned of the consequences for those involved in their distribution or use.
“It is illegal to import or acquire meters from unauthorized sources. We will pursue all necessary legal actions against individuals involved in this illicit trade,” Dapaah said.
Dapaah highlighted the risks of these unauthorized meters, including potential fire hazards, equipment damage, and increased technical losses.
He explained, “These meters are not tested or calibrated according to the standards set by regulatory bodies such as the Energy Commission and the Ghana Standards Authority.”
Customers are advised to avoid purchasing meters from unofficial sources and to contact ECG directly for genuine products. The company offers various options for those seeking new meters under its Loss Reduction Programme (LRP) and Flat Rate Policy.
“The introduction of these programs allows us to serve our customers efficiently. We urge you to visit the nearest ECG office for legitimate meters and avoid illegal purchases,” Dapaah added.
The ECG is also calling on the public to support its efforts in combating the spread of fake meters, which undermine the company’s revenue collection and affect reliable power supply.
“Users of these counterfeit meters are not recorded in our database and often consume electricity without paying.
This affects our revenue and puts a strain on the power supply system,” Dapaah noted.
For convenient bill payment, ECG customers are encouraged to use the ECG PowerApp or the shortcode *226# to settle outstanding bills and help maintain a stable electricity supply.
