EFL assures new tariff structure protects vulnerable customers

The revised electricity tariffs are structured to protect vulnerable categories of customers, says Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) chief executive officer Fatiaki Gibson.

Mr Gibson made the remarks during a public awareness session on the new tariff structure in Nadi Town yesterday.

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has approved a 24.2 per cent increase in electricity tariffs, effective January 1, 2026.

The decision follows careful consideration of actual consumption trends, cost-of-service principles, and Fiji’s National Renewable Energy objectives.

The new tiered structure aims to safeguard low-usage households while supporting long-term energy sustainability. It includes three consumption levels:

• Tier 1 (0–100 kWh): No change
• Tier 2 (101–300 kWh): Slight increase
• Tier 3 (Above 300 kWh): Higher increase

Mr Gibson said EFL’s participation in the FCCC awareness programme was crucial to provide customers with technical explanations of how the changes will impact their bills.

“We want to bring clarity to our consumers so they understand how the bill affects them, especially domestic customers. At the end of the day, it’s about how much money impacts their pockets,” he said.

He said that EFL has been mindful of vulnerable communities throughout the tariff revision process, as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the commercial category.

“If you look at the way it is structured, it looks after that vulnerable category of customers,” Mr Gibson added.

He said the awareness program is designed to ensure customers understand how the revised tariffs apply to different categories.

“We’re making sure that customers know what happens to their bills. That is key for us. I can confirm and assure the public that both EFL and FCCC have considered vulnerable people in this determination.”

Mr Gibson explained that the tariff revision process follows a legislated methodology under the Electricity Act 2017, ensuring transparency and consumer protection.

The FCCC oversees the process to ensure compliance with international standards.