E-MOBILITY and renewable energy company Switch Network has partnered with the Australian government’s Market Development Facility (MDF) to advance the adoption of rooftop solar solutions in Fiji. This collaboration is set to enhance access to financing and improve marketing strategies within the solar energy sector, making renewable energy more accessible to the Fijian population.
According to a joint statement issued by Switch and MDF, this partnership will expand Switch’s leasing model, significantly reducing the upfront costs associated with solar energy installations. Customers will benefit from flexible monthly payment plans and will have real-time access to data regarding their energy usage and production.
The initiative will also see the development of tailored marketing campaigns aimed at micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), helping to foster broader acceptance of renewable energy within diverse business communities. Alex Reddaway, CEO of Switch, noted that this collaboration marks a substantial step toward making clean energy solutions more attainable for both Fijian households and businesses. He highlighted MDF’s crucial role in tapping into previously unaddressed demand and reaching new markets while providing inclusive financial options that allow more individuals to reap the long-term benefits of solar energy.
MDF Fiji’s country director, Kelera Cavuilati, emphasized that this initiative will facilitate inclusive growth and bolster climate resilience, aligning with Fiji’s national climate targets, which aim for nearly 100% of electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030. Currently, renewable sources account for about 55% of Fiji’s electricity generation, largely from hydroelectric power.
The joint statement also pointed out that expanding access to rooftop solar is critical for achieving Fiji’s energy objectives, enhancing energy security, and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels. While rooftop solar presents notable cost savings and resilience against climate-related challenges, adoption has been relatively slow, particularly among small businesses that encounter substantial upfront costs and limited financing avenues.
Recent studies reveal a strong inclination among Fijians towards solar energy, with nearly 70% of surveyed urban households indicating a willingness to invest in solar systems using personal funds. Furthermore, half of those surveyed expressed interest in various financing options to mitigate installation costs. The effectiveness of initiatives like the one between Switch and MDF will depend significantly on improving financial products and regulatory frameworks that facilitate a smoother transition to solar solutions.
With this partnership, Fiji is on a promising path to enhance its renewable energy sector, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future. As both businesses and households increasingly turn to solar energy, the collaboration between organizations like Switch Network and MDF represents a hopeful stride towards greater energy independence and environmental stewardship in the region.