RUP Investments PTE Limited, known for its retail brand Rups Big Bear, is embarking on an ambitious initiative to enhance the adoption of commercial solar energy in Fiji while positioning itself as a leader in corporate sustainability and renewable energy. The company, which has diversified its portfolio into areas such as property, forestry, manufacturing, and tourism, is set to considerably expand its solar capacity to a total of 1.5 megawatts (MW).
Company director Javeer Rup shared that the solar journey for RUP Investments is just beginning, with around 500 kilowatts (kW) of on-grid solar energy already installed. This year, the company aims to achieve its target of approximately 1.5 MW at various Rups Big Bear locations as part of a broader sustainability strategy. Recently completed installations in Sigatoka, Tavua, and two outlets in Ba exemplify the company’s commitment to sustainability, an effort that officially commenced in 2024.
Rups Big Bear is quickly becoming a significant contributor to Fiji’s private-sector solar investments, with over 500 kW in use across 11 locations, which include retail stores, warehouses, and industrial facilities. This substantial investment equates to a reduction of more than 600 tonnes of carbon emissions annually, comparable to the impact of planting around 30,000 trees, benefiting local communities and stakeholders.
In a pioneering development, Rup Investments has become the first company in Fiji to power a sawmill using on-grid solar energy, illustrating how large-scale solar deployment can be both practical and environmentally responsible. This initiative aligns with Fiji’s national goals for carbon emission reduction and achieving net-zero targets.
The company also oversees more than 700 acres of sustainably managed forest in Navua and has been recognized as the Top Sawmill in the Central Division by the Ministry of Forestry for 2024. Its sawmill in Navua is equipped with state-of-the-art timber processing equipment and employs over 40 full-time staff, being one of the few firms in Fiji licensed by Fiji Hardwood Corporation to process sawn logs.
Mr. Rup emphasized the company’s clear objective: to ensure that every Rups Big Bear store and facility in Fiji operates sustainably while providing reliable energy for both staff and customers. He views the expansion of their solar portfolio as merely the beginning of their dedication to fostering a cleaner and greener Fiji.
The push for solar energy not only reduces carbon emissions and operational expenses but also establishes a benchmark for environmental stewardship in Fiji’s corporate sector. By demonstrating the scalability and impact of commercial solar energy, Rup Investments aspires to motivate other businesses to embrace renewable solutions, thereby supporting Fiji’s broader sustainability efforts. Mr. Rup believes that strong leadership from the private sector is essential in driving the nation’s transition towards sustainable energy practices.