Examining the prospects and challenges of utility pricing regulations in the Tamale Metropolis of Ghana

Abstract

The study sought to examine the prospects and challenges of utility pricing regulations on stakeholder protection. The descriptive survey design was used. A total of 240 respondents were selected through convenient sampling technique. The study was conducted within the Tamale Metropolitan Area of the Northern Region. Questionnaires were the main instrument used in collecting data from the respondents for the study. Data were collected after the necessary ethical consideration and clearance had been sought. Responses from the participants were analysed using SPSS 21. The study revealed that the level of stakeholders satisfaction of utility regulation were significantly different among the four categories of stakeholders (X² = 22.659, p <.05) with a mean rank of 162.15 for Public Utilities Regulatory Commission staff, 133 for Ghana Water Company Staff, 109.54 for consumers and 99.24 for VRA/NEDCo Staff. The study further affirmed that the Commission approves rates chargeable for provision of utility services in promoting and protecting stakeholders’ interest. The study concluded that most stakeholders to a larger extent are fully aware of some basic rights relative to consumer protection which implies that most consumers have some form of knowledge regarding what to expect from utility providers when they the consumer meet their obligation and expect the utility providers to do same. Most consumers owing to the knowledge or awareness of their rights may seek redress for any breach of their rights. It therefore recommends that that there should be collaborative efforts of all sectors of society to highlight more programmes on consumer awareness on consumer protection laws in the utility sector to build knowledge