Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) has set an ambitious goal of sourcing at least 90 percent of its energy requirements from renewable sources by 2035. Acting EFL Chief Executive Bobby Naimawi stated that the company is engaged in identifying and developing projects that are both sustainable and economically feasible to meet this target.
One of the key initiatives under consideration is the Namosi Hydro-electric scheme, for which EFL is currently conducting a feasibility study. Previous investigations indicated the potential for developing several small hydro-electric projects in the Namosi region, and EFL aims to build on those findings.
Naimawi explained that the next steps will depend on the results of the feasibility study, which is evaluating three potential hydro-power sites in Namosi. This assessment also includes the necessary high-voltage power evacuation infrastructure to connect Namosi to major electricity demand centers.
The feasibility study will analyze various factors, including the technical feasibility, commercial viability, and the environmental and social impacts of the proposed hydro-power facilities and infrastructure. Launched in 2024, the study is expected to take up to two years, divided into two phases:
Phase 1 involves scoping and options analysis to explore different project scenarios, while Phase 2 focuses on a shortlist of project options, delving into detailed technical, environmental, and social studies.
Throughout this process, the impact of the hydro-power scheme will be evaluated in accordance with international standards and best practices, which includes assessing potential social and economic benefits. Naimawi emphasized that the study will aim to avoid any inundation of populated or culturally sensitive areas and ensure that there are no relocations of current settlements or villages resulting from the hydro-power projects.
Consultants funded by development partners are conducting the work for the feasibility study while collaborating closely with stakeholders to consult with affected communities before moving forward with project development. The findings from this study will play a crucial role in shaping Fiji’s renewable energy roadmap in alignment with the National Development Plan.