Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau has confirmed that discussions regarding electricity tariffs took place in today’s Cabinet meeting. When questioned by FBC News about the potential for a 22 percent increase in tariffs, Ro Filipe refrained from providing specific details, emphasizing that the topic is a part of official Cabinet deliberations. He mentioned that the Cabinet Office would issue a statement shortly to clarify the matter.
FBC News has reported that a press briefing scheduled for last Friday in Lautoka, which was anticipated to announce the tariff hike, was unexpectedly canceled, even with reporters already in attendance. This has raised questions about the transparency surrounding the situation.
Earlier this year, Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) had proposed a 32 percent increase in tariffs, which was turned down by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC). The FCCC cited a lack of sufficient justification for the increase and expressed concerns about its financial implications on both households and businesses.
Hasmukh Patel, the former Chief Executive of EFL, had indicated that the company plans to resubmit a revised proposal that would facilitate necessary infrastructure upgrades and aid in the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Further updates from today’s Cabinet meeting are anticipated once the Cabinet Office releases its official announcement, providing a clearer picture of the future of electricity tariffs in the area. This situation is undoubtedly critical for consumers and businesses alike, and the hope remains that any decisions made will consider their well-being in the long term.