Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) has announced an ambitious goal to source at least 90 percent of its energy from renewable resources by 2035. In a bid to meet this target, Acting Chief Executive Bobby Naimawi revealed that EFL is proactively identifying and developing sustainable and economically feasible energy projects.
One prominent initiative under consideration is the Namosi Hydro-electric scheme, which is currently undergoing a feasibility study. Previous assessments indicated the potential for several small hydro-electric projects in the Namosi region, and EFL aims to build on these findings.
Naimawi emphasized that the direction EFL will take depends on the feasibility study’s results. This analysis will evaluate three potential sites for hydro-power in Namosi, along with the necessary high-voltage infrastructure to connect these sites to major electricity consumption areas.
The feasibility study, which began in 2024, is expected to take up to two years to complete and will unfold in two phases. The first phase will involve a scoping and options analysis, exploring various project scenarios and configurations. The second phase will focus on a shortlist of potential projects, accompanied by comprehensive technical, environmental, and social evaluations.
The study aims to assess the potential impacts of the hydro-power project in accordance with international standards, paying particular attention to the social and economic benefits. Naimawi reassured that efforts would be made to ensure that the project’s implementation does not result in flooding populated or culturally important areas. The study is designed to avoid displacing existing communities or villages.
The consultancy work for the feasibility assessment is being financed by development partners, and the consultants are engaging closely with stakeholders to gather input from those who may be impacted by the proposed projects.
Naimawi concluded that the findings from the feasibility study will play a crucial role in shaping Fiji’s renewable energy strategy as outlined in the National Development Plan.