How to Buy ECG Credit Without Internet in Ghana (Guide)

Introduction: No Internet, No Problem

You don’t have data. Your smartphone battery is dead. Or you’re still using a feature phone that can’t download apps. Does that mean you have to sit in the dark when your prepaid credit runs out?

Absolutely not.

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has designed its cashless payment system to work for everyone—not just smartphone users with expensive data plans. The solution is a simple USSD code that works on any mobile phone, with or without internet access .

This guide shows you exactly how to buy ECG prepaid credit using only your phone’s dialer. No apps. No internet. No special skills required.

The Simple Answer: Dial *226#

The official ECG short code for buying prepaid credit is *226# . This is the only USSD code ECG uses for its cashless payment system .

What you need:

• Any mobile phone (smartphone or feature phone)

• A mobile money wallet (MTN MoMo, Telecel Cash, or AT Money) with sufficient balance

• Your meter number (printed on your meter)

What you DON’T need:

• Internet connection or mobile data

• Smartphone

• ECG PowerApp

• Physical cash (ECG no longer accepts cash)

No extra charges: ECG has confirmed that transactions via *226# do NOT attract mobile money charges or E-Levy fees .

Step-by-Step Instructions

What to Do After Buying Credit

If your meter is a smart meter (most modern meters): The credit will be applied automatically. You don’t need to enter anything manually .

If your meter is older or offline: You will receive a 20-digit token via SMS. Enter it manually into your meter:

1. Go to your prepaid meter

2. Use the keypad to enter the 20-digit token carefully

3. Press the “Enter” button (usually a green key)

4. Wait for the confirmation beep or light indicator showing a successful recharge

Alternative Methods (If *226# Isn’t Working)

Use Your Mobile Network’s MoMo Menu

If *226# is temporarily unavailable, you can also buy ECG credit through your network’s USSD menu :

Visit an ECG Prepayment Vendor

If USSD methods fail, you can still purchase credit from an authorized ECG prepayment vendor. However, ECG has gone fully cashless, so you will need to pay using mobile money or a bank card—not cash .

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Important Security Warning

ECG does NOT have any private mobile money accounts. All legitimate payments must go through the ECG PowerApp or the official short code *226# .

Warning signs of scams:

• Someone calls demanding mobile money payment to “release” your token

• Caller claims to be from ECG but asks for cash

• Unknown person offers to “help” buy credit for a fee

• Caller asks for your mobile money PIN

If you receive such a call: Hang up immediately. Report the number to ECG customer service at 0302-611611 .

How to Contact ECG for Help

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

*1. Do I need internet to buy ECG credit using 226#?
No. The USSD code *226# works on any phone with or without internet access .

*2. Does 226# work on feature phones?
Yes. USSD codes work on all mobile phones, including basic feature phones .

*3. Are there extra charges when using 226#?
No. ECG has confirmed that transactions via *226# do NOT attract mobile money charges or E-Levy fees .

4. What if I entered the wrong meter number?
The token cannot be transferred to a different meter. You must purchase new credit with the correct meter number and contact ECG to request a refund for the erroneous purchase .

5. How can I retrieve a lost token?
Check your SMS messages, or dial *226# and check your transaction history. If still not found, call ECG customer service at 0302 611 611 .

6. Does ECG still accept cash payments?
No. ECG has gone fully cashless and no longer accepts physical cash for any transactions .

7. Can I buy ECG credit at any time of day?
Yes. The USSD code *226# is available 24/7 .

*8. What should I do if 226# is not working?
First, ensure you have sufficient mobile network coverage. Try your mobile network’s MoMo menu (*170# for MTN or *110# for Telecel/AT). If problems persist, contact ECG customer service .

Quick Reference Card

Conclusion From ASJ

You don’t need a smartphone or internet connection to buy ECG prepaid credit. The USSD code *226# is available to every mobile phone user in Ghana, regardless of device type or data access .

The process is simple: dial *226#, follow the prompts, select your meter, enter the amount, confirm with your mobile money PIN, and your meter will be topped up. No data. No app. No hassle.

Keep your meter number saved in your phone. Always double-check it before confirming payment. And if you ever receive a call asking for payment to “release” your token, remember: ECG will never ask for money over the phone. Hang up and report it .

The lights don’t have to go out. Dial *226# and keep your power on.

Source: Accra Street Journal 

Last Updated on April 14, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

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