Fiji has experienced a significant increase in on-grid electricity demand, rising by 10 percent in the first seven months of this year. This surge notably exceeds the typical annual growth rate of three to four percent, according to Hasmukh Patel, the chief executive officer of Electricity Fiji Ltd (EFL).
During the Fiji-Australia and Australia-Fiji Business Councils Joint Forum held in Suva last week, Patel highlighted that this growth indicates a nation that is “now on the move,” reflecting positive trends in both commercial and residential sectors. He mentioned that the total energy produced in 2023 reached 1,120 million units, with a forecasted production of 1,600 million units by 2036.
Patel noted that historically, demand increases hovered around three to four percent annually. However, he observed that comparing the period from January to July in 2023 with the same timeframe in 2024 shows a notable 10 percent increase.
He emphasized that the rise in electricity demand stems from various developments in both commercial and domestic sectors. Since its establishment in 1966, EFL has been responsible for supplying electricity to Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and Ovalau, with Taveuni being a recent addition to its service area.
To address the rising demand and achieve sustainability goals, EFL aims to fulfill 90 percent of its energy requirements through renewable sources by 2025. The company has identified several hydro scheme projects to support this initiative, with two major schemes—Qaliwana and Vatutokotoko—expected to be developed in conjunction with the existing Upper Wailoa Diversion Hydro-electric Scheme. Patel anticipates that design work for these projects will begin soon, with plans to be ready by early next year.