Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau has confirmed that electricity tariffs were a key topic during today’s Cabinet meeting. When approached by FBC News regarding a potential 22 percent increase, Ro Filipe refrained from providing specific details, stating that the matter remains part of the Cabinet’s official discussions.
The Cabinet Office is expected to issue an official statement shortly, which will shed more light on the discussions regarding the tariffs. This meeting follows a press briefing in Lautoka that was anticipated to address the tariff increase but was unexpectedly canceled, leaving reporters who had gathered at the event without information.
Earlier this year, Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) sought a 32 percent increase in tariffs, which the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) rejected due to a lack of sufficient justification and concerns over the potential financial burden on households and businesses. Hasmukh Patel, the former Chief Executive of EFL, had previously suggested that the company plans to submit a revised proposal aimed at facilitating necessary infrastructure upgrades alongside a transition to cleaner energy sources.
Further updates regarding the electricity tariff discussions are expected soon, as the government aims to balance energy needs with economic implications for citizens. This ongoing situation highlights the important dialogue surrounding energy sustainability and affordability in Fiji.
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