By: Valentia Tetteh
Parliament has passed the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a GHS1 increase in the levy on petroleum products. The new measure is projected to raise an additional GHS5.7 billion to help reduce mounting energy sector debts and support the delivery of reliable electricity across the country.
Presenting the bill on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, June 3, Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson disclosed that Ghana’s energy sector debt currently stands at $3.1 billion, with at least $3.7 billion needed to fully clear it.
He added that the government requires an additional $1.2 billion in 2025 to procure fuel for thermal power generation.
Dr. Forson assured that the levy increment would not lead to an increase in ex-pump fuel prices, a concern many Ghanaians have expressed in light of current economic pressures.
However, the bill’s passage did not go without controversy. The Minority Caucus strongly opposed the measure, describing it as ill-timed and burdensome. In protest, the Minority staged a walkout, insisting that the Majority lacked the necessary numbers to legally pass the bill.
Despite the walkout, the Majority side proceeded with the approval, citing the urgent need for financial interventions to stabilize Ghana’s power sector and reduce reliance on debt.
