The Finance Minister, Esrom Immanuel, has highlighted that decisions made during the previous government’s partial sale of Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) continue to influence current electricity challenges in the nation. He emphasized that the sale, which saw 44 percent of EFL shares sold to private investors, missed a crucial opportunity to establish stronger safeguards focused on renewable energy transition targets, price stability, and maintaining strategic national control over an essential utility.
Immanuel stated, “Electricity is an essential national utility. We must ensure Fiji’s long-term resilience, renewable capacity, and affordability. That is what we are strengthening now.” His remarks came in light of the ongoing tariff review, set against a backdrop of rising fuel costs, climate implications, and increasing infrastructure demands. He pointed out that certain regulatory measures were diminished at the time of the EFL sale, creating further challenges today.
The Minister argued that more robust provisions should have been included, such as stringent investment obligations in renewable energy, clearer consumer protection standards, and mechanisms that would maintain government oversight during crises. He conveyed a positive outlook, expressing that the government’s current focus is on rebuilding those necessary protections through greater transparency and enhanced oversight.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that tariff outcomes are justified, fair, and sustainable,” Immanuel said. He reiterated the government’s dedication to safeguarding consumers, fostering public trust, and reinforcing national energy security as Fiji progresses in refining its electricity framework. The tariff review process is ongoing, with regulators analyzing financial sustainability, consumer impact, and Fiji’s transition towards renewable energy solutions. This concerted effort aims to secure a reliable and sustainable energy future for Fiji’s citizens.