3 Million Smart Prepaid Meters Malfunctioning Nationwide – Energy Minister-designate
Energy Minister-Designate Calls for Urgent Replacement and Modernization to Address Customer Frustrations
- Nearly 3 million smart prepaid meters require immediate replacement to meet demand
- Consumers face delays and difficulties in acquiring functional meters
- John Jinapor suggests modernizing distribution and allowing consumers to purchase advanced smart meters
Energy Minister-designate John Abdulai Jinapor has revealed a critical challenge in Ghana’s energy sector that nearly three million smart prepaid meters are malfunctioning, leaving electricity consumers in frustration and uncertainty.
During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on January 13, 2025, Mr. Jinapor stated that approximately 2.9 million meters require immediate replacement to meet market demands. He highlighted the limited availability of functional meters and the urgent need to address customer grievances over delays and difficulties in acquiring replacements.
Mr. Jinapor proposed exploring advanced smart meter solutions and structured distribution systems, including the possibility of allowing consumers to purchase meters directly. He pledged to tackle the issue decisively if confirmed as Energy Minister.
“The ideal solution is to provide prepared meters, especially advanced smart meters, that meet all technical requirements. Current data shows 5.2 million meters nationwide, with 4.8 million active, yet nearly 3 million are malfunctioning. Immediate replacements are crucial,” he emphasized.
The malfunctioning meters underscore the need for swift and innovative interventions to ensure a reliable energy supply for Ghanaians.
