The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) has raised significant concerns about the transparency of the recent consultation results regarding electricity tariffs. The organization believes that the views of commercial users have not been adequately reflected. Edward Bernard, the CEO of FCEF, pointed out that while the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) reported general support for a proposed tariff adjustment, it is essential to differentiate between the perspectives of residential and commercial sectors.
Bernard emphasized the need for a comprehensive breakdown of the submissions, arguing that the impact of electricity tariffs on businesses is vastly different compared to households. He noted that a substantial number of commercial users oppose the proposed 34.7 percent increase in electricity tariffs due to anticipated increases in operational costs, which could threaten the sustainability of their enterprises.
Moreover, Bernard expressed concerns about the consultation process itself, suggesting that many participants were unsure whether the initiative served as a genuine consultation or merely an awareness campaign. This lack of clarity may have affected the nature of the feedback provided and how it was interpreted.
The FCEF has urged for a detailed analysis of the consultation data to ensure that the business community’s concerns are fully recognized before any final decisions are made. In light of these issues, the FCCC has announced that it will postpone the final approval of the electricity tariff until April 30, 2026. This delay will permit further discussions with stakeholders, including businesses and the government, to explore potential support measures and financing options.
This development is a positive step towards fostering better communication between commercial entities and regulatory bodies, signaling a commitment to collaborative discussions aimed at achieving sustainable solutions that benefit both businesses and consumers.