Fijian households that are mindful of their electricity consumption will not experience an increase in their power bills, following the approval of a new electricity tariff by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC). Conversely, households and businesses with higher energy usage will encounter a more significant rise in charges.
Starting from January 1, 2026, Fiji will implement a tiered electricity tariff system that adjusts costs based on the amount of electricity consumed. This new structure will benefit over half of the domestic customers—those using 100 kilowatt hours or less per month—who will see no changes in their monthly bills.
FCCC Chief Executive Senikavika Jiuta explained that the decision came after an extensive and thorough review process, as Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) initially pushed for a substantial increase in tariffs. Although EFL proposed an average tariff increase of 31.7 percent, this proposal was declined. A subsequent request sought an even steeper increase of 37 percent, which was also rejected. After months of public consultations, technical evaluations, and analyses, the FCCC settled on a reduced overall increase of 24.2 percent, prioritizing fairness and consideration for vulnerable consumers.
Jiuta emphasized that the review was not just about figures but about the impact on people. She stated, “Approval was granted only because the revised plan is fair to the average consumer, necessary to maintain system reliability, and essential to sustain Fiji’s future energy needs in a sustainable manner.” The FCCC took into account how electricity pricing influences household budgets and security, guiding their efforts by fairness and the protection of low-income families.
Under the new tariff structure, domestic customers will be classified into three tiers based on their usage. Households consuming between zero and 100 kilowatt hours per month will maintain the rate of 34 cents per unit, with approximately 98,800 households, or 52 percent of EFL’s domestic customers, benefiting from no change. Those who use between 101 and 300 units will see a slight increase to 35 cents per unit, affecting about 77,000 households, or 40 percent of domestic customers. For households consuming more than 300 units monthly—around eight percent of customers—the rate will increase to 36 cents per unit.
Practical examples illustrate the impact of these changes. A typical household using 150 units per month will see its bill rise by just 51 cents, while higher-usage households exceeding 300 units will experience an increase of approximately $2.04.
The new structure also includes businesses, with larger electricity consumers facing more significant increases. Small commercial customers consuming up to 1,000 units monthly will see their rates increase by three cents per unit, leading to an approximate $25.60 rise in their monthly bill.
The decision comes after thorough public consultations across various regions, bringing to light issues such as rising costs, renewable energy commitments, and the safeguarding of low-income households. Jiuta stated that these concerns were instrumental in shaping the final outcome, as the FCCC aimed to mitigate reliance on borrowing, promote renewable investments, and provide safeguards for vulnerable consumers.
The new tariff will be closely monitored, with EFL subjected to biannual audits to ensure compliance with promised investments and operational enhancements. Nationwide public awareness sessions will also be conducted, allowing consumers to better understand the new tariff, ask questions, and learn efficient electricity management practices.
The Chief Executive highlighted that the new tariff will remain effective for the next four years, providing stability for households and businesses while ensuring the reliability and sustainability of Fiji’s electricity system. Every decision made by the FCCC is backed by evidence, transparency, and a commitment to serve the best interests of the Fijian people. This new structure is a positive step towards a more equitable and sustainable energy future for Fiji.
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