The Consumer Council of Fiji has expressed its concerns regarding the recent increases in electricity tariffs, cautioning that these higher energy costs may result in increased prices for essential goods and services to consumers. The Council suggests that enhanced consultation, transparency, and accountability in managing these changes could alleviate potential negative impacts on the public.
Seema Shandil, the Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Council, emphasized the importance of engaging consumers and businesses in discussions that involve essential services. She pointed out that abrupt tariff increases without adequate consultation leave households and businesses ill-prepared for the ensuing financial burden.
Shandil highlighted the risk that rising electricity costs for businesses may be passed on to consumers, exacerbating the already significant cost-of-living pressures many households face. “Consumers are already under significant cost-of-living pressure, and any further increase in the price of essential goods and services will strain household budgets even more. This is why dialogue and cooperation between service providers, regulators, and the business community is so important,” she stated.
The Consumer Council is advocating for open discussions as businesses adapt to elevated electricity costs and is calling for restraint to ensure that any price increases remain reasonable. The Council also warned against employing electricity tariffs as a generic justification for excessive price hikes, underscoring that responsible pricing is essential to safeguard consumers in the future.
Beyond just pricing issues, the Council emphasized that responsibly managed additional revenues from the tariff increases could lead to long-term benefits for consumers. Energy Fiji Limited, the power provider, has cited the necessity for capital expenditure and infrastructure investment as the reason behind the tariff hikes. The Council insists that consumers expect these commitments to result in tangible benefits.
“If consumers are paying more, they have a right to expect that these funds are directed toward tangible outcomes,” Shandil stated, urging investments in renewable energy, infrastructure improvements, and enhanced system reliability rather than prioritizing profit.
The Council noted that such investments could lead to a more reliable electricity supply, reduced outages, cleaner energy sources, and greater energy security for the country. These advancements can stabilize costs over time, foster economic growth, and provide improved value for consumers.
To maintain public trust, the Consumer Council is calling for regular and transparent reporting on how additional revenue from increased tariffs is allocated, alongside updates on capital project progress. The Council believes that visible outcomes will help reassure the public that higher charges are yielding real advantages.
Moreover, the Consumer Council has urged government agencies, regulators, and business representatives to closely monitor pricing trends in the upcoming months. By collaborating, stakeholders can ensure consumer protection, sustain business viability, and help ensure that electricity tariff increases yield long-term improvements that ultimately benefit the people of Fiji.
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