The Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) Ghana has urged the Ministry of Energy and Green Transition to immediately engage with workers over the reported plan to merge the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) and the Energy Commission.
In an internal memo, the Union raised serious concerns about job security and staff welfare, warning that the proposed merger appears to be advancing without adequate consultation with the affected employees.
According to the memo, workers within both institutions fear the consolidation could lead to redundancies, reassignments, or transfers, potentially destabilizing existing employment arrangements.
“We believe this proposal carries significant implications for employees, and engaging with the Ministry will help us understand the details, offer suggestions, and ensure workers’ interests are protected,” the Union stated.
The PSWU emphasized that discussions around the restructuring must involve direct consultations with the workforce, noting that the process seems to be progressing quietly without addressing the critical concerns of staff.
Representing employees across more than 75 public sector institutions — including PURC, the Energy Commission, VRA, NEDCo, GRIDCo, and Bui Power Authority — the Union underscored the need for transparent dialogue to strike a balance between efficiency gains and labour rights.
“Transparent engagement is essential to prevent anxiety and speculation. Workers deserve to know how their future fits into this new framework,” the memo added.
The proposed merger forms part of the government’s broader effort to reform Ghana’s energy sector, streamline regulation, and reduce institutional overlap.
However, such restructuring efforts have historically triggered unease among labour groups, who fear the erosion of job security and institutional independence.
The PSWU has therefore called for consultations to be held “at the earliest convenience” to ensure that workers’ perspectives are included before any final decisions are made.
The Union reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement, stressing that open dialogue will be crucial as Ghana advances its energy transition and regulatory reforms.
“We stand ready to engage in good faith. Sustainable reform can only be achieved when the voices of workers are heard,” the statement concluded.