New data highlights significant disparities in the access to clean cooking fuel among women in urban and rural areas of Fiji. The “Experimental Gender Climate Change Nexus Data Brief 2025,” published by the Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBoS), indicates that the reliance on traditional fuel sources remains prevalent among rural women, with many still depending on firewood for daily cooking needs.
The report reveals that urban households account for a staggering 69.7 percent of electricity consumption and 80.9 percent of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) usage. In contrast, rural areas display considerably lower access, with only 30.3 percent of electricity and 19.1 percent of LPG being utilized. Although kerosene is more evenly distributed across urban and rural settings, 67.3 percent of kerosene use is situated in urban areas, where some low-income communities continue to rely on it for both cooking and lighting.
These findings underscore the goals laid out in Fiji’s National Energy Policy 2023–2030, which emphasizes the need to expand clean energy access, particularly for rural and marginalized communities. FBoS states that the policies are aimed at transitioning Fiji towards a net-zero emissions economy by 2050, focusing on enhanced clean energy adoption. Recognizing the specific challenges faced by women, the policy aims to implement targeted interventions that improve access to clean energy solutions.
Access to clean cooking fuels is crucial for women, who often shoulder the primary responsibility for cooking and collecting fuel. Transitioning to cleaner options, such as LPG and biogas, can notably mitigate health risks stemming from indoor air pollution and allow women to reclaim time for other productive pursuits.
Given the complexities surrounding energy access in Fiji, the emphasis on equitable distribution and clean alternatives presents a hopeful pathway forward. As the government prioritizes clean energy initiatives, particularly for underserved communities, these efforts not only promote sustainability but also aim to uplift women’s role in energy access and economic development. The commitment to clean cooking solutions reflects a broader intention to foster gender equity within the energy sector and enhance overall community well-being.