A 69-year-old resident of Nasinu, Lalita Devi, has expressed her concerns regarding the proposed electricity tariff increases by Energy Fiji Ltd (EFL), warning that such hikes would further burden vulnerable families who are already struggling to make ends meet — including those without electricity access. Devi voiced her thoughts during a public consultation hosted by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC).
Devi shared that her family heavily relies on government support and small informal jobs to cover basic needs. “We don’t have big jobs or a lot of money,” she stated, highlighting her dependence on monthly social welfare assistance, which ranges between $100 and $150. Much of this financial aid is consumed by medication costs, as Devi, due to her age, is unable to perform heavy labor.
Compounding her challenges, Devi also cares for her daughter, Sangeeta Devi, who lost her eyesight due to diabetes and receives an additional welfare allowance of $100. Despite these hardships, she remains resilient, attempting to navigate their difficulties as best as she can.
While residents in Devi’s area have access to EFL posts and wiring, they are still awaiting power. In the meantime, many depend on small solar panels, which Devi pointed out are often unreliable, particularly in adverse weather conditions. “When it rains, it gets dark. Some people with a little bit of money have managed to put solar panels, but we are still waiting,” she explained.
With prices of basic goods steadily increasing, Devi expressed her worry about managing household expenses should electricity finally reach her home. “Just seeing the wires makes us happy, thinking one day a bulb will light up, but then I think, even if we get it, will we be able to afford it?” she questioned.
Devi appealed to authorities to consider the realities faced by the elderly and low-income families, urging for government support, including aid for solar power systems, to ensure that no one is left behind as Fiji continues to adapt to its energy needs. Her call for nurturing support reflects a larger need for both social and infrastructural initiatives to uplift the most vulnerable in society.
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