Mark Halabe, the founder and managing director of Mark One Apparel, recently described the process of obtaining permission from Energy Fiji Ltd (EFL) for solar panel installation at home as a challenging endeavor. He shared his thoughts through an online platform, highlighting the rigorous regulatory requirements that homeowners must navigate to set up solar energy systems.
Halabe explained that the installation of solar panels is not as simple as purchasing a panel and mounting it on one’s roof. Instead, it requires approvals from the electricity authority, which can be a daunting task. However, he noted that the situation is improving over time. Reflecting on his own experience, he mentioned that he installed his first solar farm on his factory a decade ago, and back then, the process was complex. Fortunately, he had the support of an installer who managed many of the regulatory hurdles.
Despite the challenges, Halabe acknowledged that many individuals are unfamiliar with the necessary steps and requirements set by EFL, leading to complications during their installation processes. He emphasized that while the approval process can be rigorous, it has been evolving positively.
In summary, while the journey to install solar panels in Fiji may involve navigating cumbersome regulations, progress is being made to streamline this process, encouraging more people to adopt renewable energy solutions.
This experience underlines the importance of providing better guidance and resources for homeowners looking to embrace solar energy, which is crucial for fostering a shift towards sustainable practices. It’s hopeful that as these regulatory processes improve, more individuals will take advantage of renewable energy, contributing to a greener future for Fiji.
Leave a comment