Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) is taking significant steps to reduce power outages caused by lightning strikes in the Western Division by installing lightning surge arrestors. This initiative is part of EFL’s commitment to improving infrastructure resilience and minimizing disruptions related to severe weather, which have historically impacted electricity supply, particularly during the humid months from November to April.
EFL has highlighted that lightning-induced power disruptions have been a recurring issue, with previous incidents leading to widespread outages. The surge arrestors will play a vital role in protecting the electrical distribution and transmission networks from voltage spikes caused by such natural electrical phenomena. By safely diverting excess voltage to the ground, these devices are expected to reduce the frequency of unplanned power outages significantly.
On November 16, EFL announced plans to de-energize the 132kV transmission line between the Nadarivatu switching station and the Vuda zone substation to safely facilitate the installation of these surge arrestors. This proactive measure aims to strengthen the electrical infrastructure in response to the challenges faced due to unpredictable weather patterns, ensuring better stability for power supply.
Recent events underscore the urgency behind these efforts; on March 28, 2025, Viti Levu experienced significant power outages caused by severe lightning activity, affecting thousands of customers. Following this incident, EFL confirmed that their teams worked diligently to restore power, which reflects their capability to respond effectively to such emergencies. The ongoing challenges of weather-related disruptions have emphasized the importance of EFL’s commitment to enhancing service reliability and preparing for future challenges.
With the installation of lightning surge arrestors and ongoing improvements in infrastructure, EFL is fostering hope for a more resilient energy supply in Fiji. These efforts not only aim to mitigate the effects of natural phenomena on essential services but also to build confidence within communities regarding the stability of their electricity supply in the face of adverse weather.