The Government of Ghana has officially released a list of state institutions that are now exempt from paying electricity bills. This major policy decision, led by President John Dramani Mahama and approved by Cabinet, aims to safeguard critical national services while promoting responsible electricity use across the public sector.
According to the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, the policy is designed to ensure uninterrupted power supply to essential state facilities, especially in the health, education, defense, and security sectors. The move forms part of Ghana’s broader strategy to improve service delivery while ensuring accountability for electricity consumption.
The exemption applies strictly to core operational units within selected ministries. Non-essential departments, auxiliary offices, staff accommodations, and leisure spaces are not covered.
The exempted institutions and departments include the following:
Office of the President
Ministry of Defense – Includes military intelligence, national defense communications, and emergency systems.
Ministry of the Interior – Limited to police and emergency response units.
Ministry of Health – Covers hospitals, surgical theatres, blood banks, labs, and wards (excluding staff housing and leisure areas).
Ministry of Education – Includes classrooms, lecture halls, universities, labs, and research facilities (excluding dormitories and recreational areas).
The Ministry of Finance will cover the electricity costs through budgetary allocations, ensuring no disruption in essential public services. The policy is effective immediately.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) and Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo) have been directed to intensify revenue collection efforts from non-exempt institutions. Both agencies are authorized to disconnect electricity from defaulting public entities.
“This exemption ensures uninterrupted services in sectors vital to national security, health, and education, while also enforcing accountability among non-exempt users,” said Dr. Jinapor.
The government’s electricity bill exemption policy reflects a commitment to supporting key sectors that form the backbone of national development. While essential services get the support they need, other institutions are expected to comply with payment obligations to maintain the balance.