(Ecofin Agency) - In 2022, ATC disconnected power from several towers of internet service providers Busy Ghana and Surfline due to non-compliance with long-term financial obligations, hastening Surfline's shutdown.

Telecom infrastructure provider ATC Ghana has now cut off electricity to some Telecel telecom towers nationwide, according to a statement released to the local press on July 4. Telecel has been accused of failing to meet agreed-upon obligations.

"ATC Ghana no longer has capacity to purchase electricity and diesel to service Telecel's equipment, particularly where its agreements with Telecel have expired," ATC Ghana stated.

ATC said the decision followed extensive negotiations with Telecel and notification to the National Communications Authority (NCA). In 2022, ATC took similar action against Busy Ghana and Surfline, leading to Surfline's cessation of operations.

This move could impact thousands of Telecel customers as the telecom operator, formerly Vodafone Ghana, has been working to reposition itself on the market after years of struggles. According to the latest official statistics, the company has 6.3 million subscribers, holding a 19.44% market share. Competitors MTN and AirtelTigo hold 71.73% and 8.83% of the market, respectively.