Investor defends Vuda site for waste-to-energy project

The principal investor behind a proposed waste‑to‑energy plant says the Vuda coastline was selected for logistical efficiency, despite calls to consider alternative sites.

Rob Cromb of Next Generation Fiji Pte Ltd said proximity to major waste sources, coastal access, and nearby infrastructure were key factors in choosing Saweni in Vuda.

He was responding to questions from Sabeto villager Don Natabe during a public consultation held on Sunday evening.

Mr Natabe questioned why the developer had not considered alternative locations, including a mined site about 30 kilometres away, and raised concerns about land ownership and the possibility of reversion to native lease.

“It is the location you have chosen for the plant. Have you considered any alternative sites, given the concerns being raised?” Mr Natabe asked.

Mr Cromb said multiple sites had been assessed, but relocating the facility further from waste sources would significantly increase costs and strain infrastructure.

“When you move a facility away from where waste is generated, transport costs rise sharply. The number of trucks increases and puts pressure on the road network,” he said.

He noted that one of the largest dump sites is about eight kilometres from the proposed location.

Mr Cromb said Fiji’s geography also made coastal access essential.

“With around 150 inhabited islands, if we are to manage waste nationally, the facility needs to be near a coastline so waste can be transported by barge,” he said.

Proximity to a major electricity station was another factor supporting the site selection.

Acknowledging concerns about land tenure, Mr Cromb said these issues formed part of the ongoing consultation and approval process.

He said the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) would test the suitability of the site and assess alternative proposals.

“If there are options we have not considered, including those raised by landowners, they will be assessed through the EIA process,” he said.

Mr Natabe also asked whether the plant could be located closer to a planned deep‑water port under the Vuda City development.

Mr Cromb said such considerations would also be examined as part of the assessment process.