ATC Ghana cuts power to Telecel over unpaid bills amidst dispute
Telecoms tower company, ATC Ghana, has disconnected Telecel Ghana from power supply at several of its tower sites across the nation, citing non-payment of bills.
Telecel Ghana has, however, vehemently refuted these allegations, describing them as “utterly false.”
In a recent statement, ATC Ghana expressed regret over the inevitable service disruptions that Telecel Ghana’s customers might face due to the power cut. The company emphasized that the decision was taken after prolonged negotiations and formal notifications to the National Communications Authority (NCA).
“We deeply regret to inform residents and business users on the network of Telecel Ghana that they may experience some level of service disruption due to ATC Ghana’s lack of capacity to continue providing power supply to Telecel’s equipment, installed on a number of ATC Ghana’s tower sites, as a result of Telecel’s failure to satisfy its agreed obligations,” the statement read.
ATC Ghana further clarified that Telecel’s inability to meet its financial obligations has rendered ATC incapable of procuring electricity and diesel to service Telecel’s equipment, particularly where their agreements have lapsed.
This incident is not an isolated case. In 2022, ATC Ghana similarly disconnected two internet service providers, Surfline and Busy Ghana, for non-payment of bills. While Surfline has since ceased operations, Busy Ghana continues to operate under a government contract, supported by other vendors.
Upon acquiring a 70% stake in Vodafone Ghana, now rebranded as Telecel Ghana, the new owners inherited a significant legacy debt estimated at $150 million. This debt includes substantial arrears owed to vendors like ATC Ghana.
Telecel had pledged to invest $500 million into the network over three years, part of which was expected to address these outstanding liabilities.
Reports from Techfocus24 have previously indicated that the outstanding debts of two telecom operators were severely impacting ATC Ghana’s operations. Despite these challenges, ATC Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to the telecom sector’s growth and expressed openness to reaching a mutually acceptable commercial solution with Telecel to restore services.
Conversely, Telecel Ghana, in a counter-statement, categorically denied the allegations of indebtedness.
“The issue has been escalated to the regulator, National Communications Authority (NCA) and is receiving the required attention,” Telecel stated, assuring subscribers of its commitment to contractual obligations and continuity of services.
The company hinted at potential legal action, stating, “Telecel Ghana reserves the right to use all lawful means to protect its brand and claim damages it will suffer as a result of the publication and any unlawful actions taken by ATC Ghana.”
