The Government of Ghana and the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) have reached an agreement to postpone the implementation of the GH¢1.0 Energy Sector Shortfall and Debt Repayment Levy (ESSDRL) to Monday, June 16, 2025.
This decision comes after a series of high-level stakeholder engagements and consultations aimed at ensuring a smooth rollout of the levy.
Originally scheduled to take effect on June 9, 2025, the new levy under the Energy Sector Levies Act 2025 (Act 1141) applies to each litre of petrol sold across the country. The revised date follows concerns raised by COMAC over inadequate stakeholder consultation and the need for adequate preparation time for oil marketing companies and fuel distributors.
In a press release signed by Dr. Riverson Oppong, Coordinator of COMAC, the organisation commended the Ministries of Energy and Green Transition, and Finance, as well as the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) for their collaborative approach and willingness to listen.
“The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) wishes to formally acknowledge and commend the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, the Ministry of Finance, the National Petroleum Authority and the Ghana Revenue Authority for the constructive engagements held,” the statement read.
According to COMAC, the postponement demonstrates the importance of dialogue, partnership, and mutual respect among stakeholders in the formulation and implementation of energy-related policies.
“Following our consultations and collaborative efforts, we are pleased to announce our alignment and satisfaction with the revised implementation date. The new effective date is now confirmed as Monday, 16th June 2025,” the statement added.
The ESSDRL is part of a broader strategy by the government to address debt accumulation and financing shortfalls in the energy sector, which continues to strain public finances and utility delivery. While the levy aims to stabilise the sector and ensure energy sustainability, it has drawn mixed reactions from the public and industry players due to its potential impact on fuel prices and the cost of living.
COMAC had earlier voiced dissatisfaction over the government’s unilateral announcement of the levy without prior engagement, warning of possible disruptions in compliance and public backlash. However, the revised implementation date appears to have resolved those concerns.
As the new deadline approaches, stakeholders are expected to intensify awareness, logistical alignment, and compliance preparation to ensure that the rollout does not disrupt operations or burden consumers unexpectedly.
The GH¢1.0 fuel levy is now officially set to begin on June 16, 2025, marking a new chapter in Ghana’s efforts to stabilise its energy economy through targeted fiscal interventions.
