Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) has committed to a goal of sourcing at least 90 percent of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2035. Acting Chief Executive Bobby Naimawi emphasized that EFL is actively pursuing the identification and development of various sustainable and economically viable projects to meet this target.
One key initiative is the Namosi Hydro-electric scheme, which is currently undergoing a feasibility study by EFL. Preliminary investigations indicate that multiple small hydro-electric projects could be developed in the Namosi region, and EFL is building on these earlier findings.
Naimawi noted that the next steps will depend on the outcomes of the feasibility study, which will evaluate three potential hydro-power sites in Namosi and the associated high-voltage infrastructure needed to connect these projects to major electricity demand areas.
The feasibility study will thoroughly assess the technical and commercial viability, as well as the environmental and social impacts of the proposed hydro-power facilities and their infrastructure. Launched in 2024, the study is projected to take up to two years and will be executed in two phases:
Phase 1 involves a scoping and options analysis that will explore various project scenarios, while Phase 2 will focus on a shortlist of project options that will undergo more detailed technical, environmental, and social examinations.
As part of the feasibility study, the impacts of the hydro-power scheme will be evaluated according to international standards and best practices, including an analysis of the potential social and economic benefits. Naimawi highlighted the commitment to ensuring that the projects will not inundate populated or culturally significant areas and that there will be no displacement of existing communities due to these hydro-power developments.
The feasibility study is being conducted by consultants funded by development partners, who are collaborating closely with stakeholders to engage with those potentially affected by the projects. The findings of this study will play a crucial role in shaping Fiji’s renewable energy roadmap as outlined in the National Development Plan.