Ghana Implements Energy Debt Levy, Fuel Prices Surge to GH¢12.59 per Litre

Accra, Ghana – July 16, 2025 – Fuel prices across Ghana have surged following the official implementation of a new GH¢1 energy sector levy, commonly referred to as the “D-Levy”, aimed at addressing the country’s ballooning energy sector debt.

The levy, which took effect today, is being enforced under the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act 1141 by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). It is part of government efforts to raise critical revenue to offset debts in the energy sector estimated to exceed US $3 billion.

As a result of the new charge, pump prices for both petrol and diesel have risen by at least GH¢1 per litre, while prices for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) have also seen a slight increase.

By 8:00 AM local time, Energycrossroad.com reported that most fuel stations had adjusted their prices upwards by more than 8 percent.

  • Star Oil Ghana’s leading Oil Marketing Company, is now retailing petrol at GH¢12.59 per litre and diesel at GH¢13.99, representing a 14.6% increase from the previous pricing window.
  • GOIL, another major supplier, has set its petrol price at GH¢12.88 and diesel at GH¢14.38.

Originally scheduled for rollout on June 16, 2025, the levy’s implementation was delayed to allow for extended stakeholder consultations and public sensitization.

Government officials have defended the move, emphasizing the need to stabilize the energy sector, improve power reliability, and safeguard against further financial deterioration in energy-related institutions.

While the levy has faced criticism from some transport operators and civil society groups, authorities insist it is a critical measure to sustain long-term energy security and reduce reliance on external borrowing.