Residents in Labasa are expressing significant concerns regarding Energy Fiji Limited’s (EFL) proposed 32 percent electricity tariff increase planned over the next four years. Many locals feel that the consultation process has not provided them with a genuine platform for feedback.
At a recent session held at the Labasa Civic Centre, only a modest tent was set up outside for discussions, where junior staff from the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission engaged with the community. However, Labasa resident Dewan Chand criticized the event, suggesting it resembled more of an awareness campaign rather than a substantive consultation, as no executive representatives were available for direct discussion. He expressed that the 21-day submission period for feedback is insufficient and indicated that EFL’s presentations seem to prioritize their plans without adequately considering their impact on consumers.
Chand emphasized, “I have come here to sort of that this was a consultation but in fact this is not a consultation. It is an informative knowledge that has been disseminated by the people who are involved here and then a consultation and information is two different things.” He raised concerns that businesses may transfer the higher costs associated with the tariff increase to consumers, thereby compounding financial burdens on ordinary households. He called on the government and EFL to ensure that all consumers are treated fairly.
Anare Vusacili shared similar views, stressing the importance of EFL and the government accounting for the implications of the proposed tariff increase on everyday Fijians. In contrast, Manasa Bulisovasova from Vatia mentioned that the consultation helped her grasp the situation better. She noted that households consuming less than 100 units might not see significant changes, while those using more would face increased bills.
Bulisovasova pointed out the necessity for the consultation process to thoroughly evaluate the feedback from the public, acknowledging that the proposed increase arises from aging infrastructure and the impact of climate change on resources such as water levels in the Monasavu Dam. She remarked, “So you can see the water levels are going down and the ageing infrastructure. So it is understandable that there has to be a rise.”
EFL has articulated that this tariff increase is crucial to maintaining a reliable power supply as electricity demand in Fiji grows approximately four percent annually. Current rates are insufficient to cover the costs associated with maintenance and upgrades.
Residents are urging a more meaningful consultation process that genuinely addresses their concerns and supports the protection of consumers. The calls from Fijians in the North highlight a pressing need for engagement that respects community voices and considers the potential hardships imposed by the proposed increase.
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