Opposition MP Alvick Maharaj has urged the government and Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) to reconsider planned electricity tariff increases, emphasizing that the financial burden should not fall on ordinary Fijians already grappling with high living costs. Maharaj’s appeal comes in light of a proposed 25 percent increase for consumers and a staggering 50 percent hike for large commercial users.
In his statement, Maharaj expressed concern about the rationale behind these increases, questioning why consumers are expected to bear the costs instead of EFL focusing on broadening its customer base to expand revenue. He argued that EFL should prioritize extending its electrical grid and connecting more households and businesses rather than exploiting its current customers financially.
Citing significant government investments in rural electrification prior to 2022, Maharaj highlighted that tens of millions of dollars were designated for grid expansions. He noted that over $50 million was allocated during the 2018/2019 fiscal year alone, which included $18.7 million earmarked for EFL to electrify more than 2,300 households. Additional amounts of $9.2 million and $6.1 million were also allocated in the following years to support new connections and wiring.
Maharaj raised concerns about the apparent slowdown in funding for grid expansion in recent years, despite the significant advancements made in electrifying various villages and settlements across Fiji. He questioned whether the public was now facing higher power bills due to the government’s and EFL’s inability to account for previous expenditures.
Moreover, Maharaj criticized EFL’s dependence on expensive and polluting diesel generators, suggesting the company should instead focus on completing funded grid extensions and investing in renewable energy sources. He pointed out that EFL has access to substantial capital and potential international partnerships, particularly with Japanese firms, and it should leverage these resources to improve infrastructure rather than impose soaring tariffs on consumers.
Maharaj concluded by stressing the need for transparency and accountability from EFL, asserting that Fijians deserve better than being confronted with yet another hike in their electricity bills. His remarks resonate with the growing calls for affordable energy solutions in Fiji while underscoring the importance of sustainable development in the country’s energy sector.
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