Fiji’s Finance, Commerce, and Business Development Minister, Esrom Immanuel, has expressed concerns regarding the legacy of the previous government’s decision to partially privatize Energy Fiji Limited (EFL), which has played a significant role in the country’s current electricity challenges. He highlighted that the 44 percent sale of EFL shares to private investors missed an essential moment to secure robust protections relating to renewable energy transition targets and pricing stability.
Immanuel pointed out that electricity is a critical utility for the nation and emphasized the need for long-term resilience, renewable capacity, and affordability. He acknowledged the complexities facing the current tariff review process amid rising fuel costs, climate change implications, and pressing infrastructure needs, citing that some regulatory safeguards were diminished when EFL was sold.
The Minister proposed that stronger provisions — such as firm investment commitments in renewable energy, clearer consumer protection measures, and the preservation of government authority during crises — could have provided Fiji with much-needed stability. He emphasized that the government’s current priority is to restore these protections through open dialogue and enhanced oversight.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that tariff outcomes are justified, fair, and sustainable. Transparency, consultation, and respect for the Fijian people remain central to how this Government operates,” Immanuel stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting consumers, maintaining public trust, and fortifying national energy security as Fiji works on its future electricity framework.
The ongoing tariff review will assess financial sustainability, consumer impact, and the broader transition towards renewable energy, indicating a hopeful path forward for Fiji’s energy landscape. The commitment to transparent consultation is a positive sign for residents as the government seeks to rebuild confidence in the energy sector.
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