The Energy Commission of Ghana is ramping up its fight against the entry of substandard and inefficient electrical products into the local market.
This initiative is a response to growing concerns over the impact these products have on both consumer safety and energy efficiency.
Key Actions and Initiatives
• Strengthened Enforcement: The Commission is enhancing market surveillance and enforcement actions nationwide to ensure compliance with energy efficiency regulations.
• Energy Efficiency Regulations, 2022: These regulations aim to permit only quality, energy-efficient appliances into the country.
Insights from Hubert Nsor Zan
Hubert Nsor Zan, Assistant Manager in charge of Energy Efficiency Regulations at the Commission, emphasised the importance of quality appliances for consumers. He stated, “Used, substandard, and inefficient products must not be allowed into the market,” highlighting the need to protect Ghanaian consumers from low-quality goods.
Combating Fraud
Zan revealed that individuals are attempting to deceive consumers by altering QR codes on energy labels and urged media collaboration to educate the public on verifying appliance standards. Smuggling remains a significant challenge, as some importers disguise banned appliances as personal effects or mislabel low-quality products as acceptable models.
Collaborative Efforts
To address these challenges, the Commission is working closely with the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and engaging foreign manufacturers to enforce Ghana’s stringent verification protocols.
Consumer Empowerment and Compliance
The Commission has the authority to test appliances for compliance with the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS).
However, Mr Zan noted that empowering consumers is crucial for achieving regulatory goals. He stated that both new and second-hand products must comply with MEPS, and importers are required to provide proof of compliance before clearance at ports.
Roadmap for Future Actions
By 2026, the Energy Commission plans to implement a roadmap to phase out used and banned goods, offering multiple opportunities for importers to align with the regulations since 2005.
Climate Commitment
Ghana has already realized a saving of 7.5 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide, contributing to its commitments under the Paris Agreement. This effort is part of a broader strategy to mitigate climate change and promote sustainable energy use, with the ultimate goal of reaching net-zero emissions.
Call to Action
Zan concluded with a call for media support in raising public awareness about energy efficiency regulations, emphasising that collective actions are essential for combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable energy future for Ghana.
“We are not only protecting consumers but also safeguarding the national grid from the pressures of inefficient devices,” he stressed.
Source: asaaseradio.com
