E-MOBILITY and renewable energy company Switch Network has joined forces with the Australian government’s Market Development Facility (MDF) to promote the installation of rooftop solar solutions in Fiji. This collaboration aims to enhance both access to financing and the marketing capabilities within the solar energy sector, fostering greater adoption of renewable energy.
As outlined in a joint statement from Switch and MDF, this partnership will expand Switch’s leasing model, effectively lowering the initial costs associated with solar energy installation. Customers will be able to enjoy flexible monthly payment options while having real-time access to data on their energy usage and generation.
Additionally, tailored marketing campaigns will be developed to target key customer segments, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which will support the wider uptake of renewable energy across different business communities. Alex Reddaway, CEO of Switch, highlighted that this partnership represents a significant advance in making clean energy solutions more accessible to Fijian households and businesses. He emphasized MDF’s role in unlocking previously untapped demand, reaching new markets, and providing inclusive financial choices, thereby allowing more individuals to benefit from the long-term advantages of solar energy.
MDF Fiji’s country director, Kelera Cavuilati, expressed that the initiative would contribute toward inclusive growth and climate resilience, aligning with Fiji’s national climate commitments, which include an ambitious target to produce nearly 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Currently, about 55% of Fiji’s electricity generation comes from renewable sources, primarily hydroelectric power.
The joint statement underscored the importance of expanding rooftop solar access in achieving Fiji’s energy goals while simultaneously enhancing energy security and lessening reliance on imported fossil fuels. While rooftop solar offers significant cost savings and resilience against climate challenges, uptake has been limited—particularly among small businesses that face considerable upfront costs and limited financing options.
Recent studies have indicated a strong interest in solar energy solutions among Fijians. Nearly 70% of surveyed urban households expressed a willingness to invest in solar systems using personal funds, while half showed interest in various financing methods to ease the burden of installation costs. However, the success of initiatives like the one between Switch and MDF hinges on improving financial products and regulatory frameworks that support a smoother transition to solar solutions.
With these developments, Fiji is poised to strengthen its renewable energy landscape, encouraging a greener and more sustainable future. As businesses and households increasingly look toward solar energy, the ongoing collaboration between organizations like Switch Network and MDF is a hopeful step toward greater energy independence and environmental stewardship in the region.