Ghana bans importation of some substandard, used appliances

As part of efforts to prevent Ghana from becoming a dumping ground for some substandard electrical appliances, the Energy Commission has announced a ban on the importation of some new but substandard and used electrical appliances.

The Energy Commission in a statement said per its mandate under Act 541, it had caused Parliament to pass 19 laws to regulate the markets for electrical appliances and renewable energy projects.

The purpose of the new regulations are also to reduce electricity demand and cost; protect the environment and safeguard the health of citizens from air pollution caused by increased power generation; and protect consumers from purchasing unsuitable appliances as well as paying unnecessarily high electricity bills.

The regulations came into force on Wednesday, November 2, 2022.

However, to ensure the effective implementation of the regulations and protect the livelihoods of persons in the electrical appliances and renewable energy products markets, there will be a transitional period of one year for the market to adjust.

The list of new but substandard and used appliances include;

1. Clothes Washing Machines
2. Industrial Fans
3. Rice Cookers
4. Computers
5. Set-Top Boxes
6. Ventilating Fans
7. Solar Panels
8. Microwave Ovens
9. Storage Water Heaters
10. Renewab;e Energy Batteries
11. Public Lighting
12. Improved Biomass Cookstoves
13. Television Sets
14. Electric Motors
15. Electric Kettles
16. Air Conditioners
17. Distribution Transformers
18. Comfort Fans

Source: myghanadaily