The Energy Commission is stepping up its game to protect Ghanaian consumers from a flood of dodgy electrical products. This is a crucial battle, and here’s why you should care: substandard appliances not only waste your money but also pose serious risks.
The Commission is fighting back through tougher enforcement and increased market checks across the nation. Hubert Nsor Zan, the Assistant Manager in charge of Energy Efficiency Regulations, is leading the charge, ensuring only top-quality, energy-saving appliances make it into the country, all thanks to the 2022 Energy Efficiency Regulations.
This is all part of the Abating Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Obsolete Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (AGORA) project, aiming to boost energy efficiency and cut down Ghana’s carbon footprint.
“Used, substandard and inefficient products must not be allowed into the market,” Zan emphasized. He highlighted how, before the ban, some dealers were taking advantage. The goal? To ensure Ghanaians get the best, most efficient products, saving them money in the long run.
But here’s where it gets controversial… The Commission has discovered that some individuals are trying to trick consumers by doctoring QR codes on energy labels.
Mr. Zan is calling on the media to help educate the public on how to verify that appliances meet the required standards.
Smuggling is a major problem, with some importers trying to sneak in banned or used appliances disguised as personal belongings. Others are commissioning manufacturers to produce what they call ‘African model’ products that don’t meet international standards.
To combat this, the Commission is working closely with the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and engaging with foreign manufacturers to ensure they comply with Ghana’s strict verification rules.
“The Commission can test any appliance, but if consumers are informed, who will buy these substandard products?” Zan pointed out. The law demands that all products, new or used, must be labeled to meet the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS). The Commission plans to intensify market surveillance to stop the dumping of these products, for the sake of public health.
Since 2005, the Commission has given importers several chances to comply. But by 2026, there will be a clear plan to completely remove used and banned goods from the Ghanaian market.
Mr. Zan is urging the media to help raise awareness about energy efficiency regulations, stressing that educating consumers is key to success.
“Our actions can help prevent global temperatures from rising more than 1.5°C, but if we do nothing, they could increase by 2.7°C by 2100,” he warned.
He clarified that the ban applies not only to second-hand products but also to new appliances that don’t meet Ghana’s MEPS requirements. Importers must provide proof of compliance before their goods can be cleared at the ports.
These regulations are designed to:
- Promote efficient energy use and conservation.
- Reduce climate change.
- Ensure every appliance on the market is properly labeled, registered, and comes with a product information sheet.
Offenses include failing to meet communication requirements, providing false information, and advertising appliances without accurate energy-efficiency ratings.
Ghana has already saved 7.5 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide, contributing to its commitments under the Paris Agreement and moving towards a net-zero emissions future.
“We are not only protecting consumers but also safeguarding the national grid from the strain caused by inefficient devices that waste energy,” he added.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to implementing policies that promote energy efficiency, protect consumers, and support Ghana’s sustainable energy transition.
What do you think? Do you believe these measures are enough to combat the influx of substandard electrical products? Share your thoughts in the comments below!