FCCC defers electricity tariff decision to April

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) has deferred its final decision on electricity tariff adjustments to April 30, 2026, following a 21-day public consultation that drew nearly 1,000 submissions.

In a statement, FCCC confirmed that 975 submissions were received and reviewed during the consultation process on the Electricity Tariff Review.

The submissions included 65 formal written responses, five focus group sessions with business communities and key interest groups, and 905 public responses gathered through structured oral consultations and surveys.

Feedback was received from consumers, businesses, industry representatives, consumer groups and government ministries.

According to the consultation outcome, 51 per cent of participants expressed support for the rationale behind a tariff adjustment, acknowledging the need to strengthen national electricity infrastructure and support Fiji’s renewable energy transition.

However, FCCC noted that most of those in support recommended that any tariff increase be implemented in a phased and measured manner.

At the same time, 37 per cent of participants opposed any increase in electricity tariffs, citing rising household expenses and cost-of-living pressures, as well as increases in non-regulated goods and services.

The remaining participants proposed additional policy considerations to ensure infrastructure development proceeds while mitigating impacts on vulnerable consumers.

FCCC acknowledged submissions from government ministries outlining a coordinated whole-of-government approach to supporting Energy Fiji Limited’s (EFL) capital investment requirements through financial and fiscal measures aimed at reducing the potential impact of tariff adjustments on consumers.

After reviewing all submissions and broader policy recommendations, FCCC resolved to defer its final electricity tariff authorisation to allow EFL further opportunity to engage with Government on proposed support measures and financing options.

The commission said it remains committed to balancing necessary investment in Fiji’s energy infrastructure with the protection of consumer interests and will continue its independent assessment once updated information is received.