Fiji’s on-grid electricity demand increased by 10 percent in the first seven months of this year, significantly exceeding the usual annual growth rate of three to four percent, as reported by Hasmukh Patel, the chief executive officer of Electricity Fiji Ltd.
During a recent forum hosted by the Fiji-Australia and Australia-Fiji Business Councils in Suva, Patel noted that this surge in demand indicates positive developments in both commercial and domestic sectors.
He mentioned that the total electricity generated in 2023 reached 1,120 million units, with projections of reaching 1,600 million units by 2036. Patel pointed out that historically, demand growth has remained around three to four percent; however, this year, there has been a noticeable increase. “We see there has been a 10 percent increase and not a 4 percent increase,” he explained, emphasizing that Fiji is experiencing a significant uptick in activity across various sectors.
Since its establishment in 1966, Electricity Fiji Ltd has been responsible for providing electricity to Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and Ovalau, with Taveuni recently included in its service area. Patel also highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability, aiming for 90 percent of its energy needs to come from renewable sources by 2025. To address the rising demand, EFL is focusing on several hydro projects, with two major schemes expected to commence in the next five years.
He expressed intentions to develop the Qaliwana and Vatutokotoko hydro schemes, which will utilize resources from the existing Upper Wailoa Diversion Hydro-electric Scheme. Design efforts for these hydro projects are anticipated to begin early next year.