Namosi landowners committee oppose proposed hydro deal

The Namosi Landowners Committee, Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA), has opposed a proposed hydroelectric power agreement involving Energy Fiji Limited, warning the project lacks the free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) of customary landowners and risks violating human rights.

In a formal response to Energy Fiji Limited chief executive officer Fatiaki Gibson, LAMA described the reported Power Purchase Agreement with Hydro Fiji as premature and procedurally flawed, arguing key decisions had been made without meaningful consultation with affected communities.

The committee said while it supports Fiji’s transition to renewable energy, national development must not come at the expense of local rights, environment and culture.

“National benefit cannot override local rights,” LAMA said, adding that large-scale hydro projects in Namosi pose significant environmental, social and cultural risks.

The group raised concerns over the proposed model, where Hydro Fiji would finance, own and operate the project while selling electricity back to Energy Fiji Limited, warning that such an arrangement limits landowner control and undermines accountability.

LAMA also rejected claims that the development would have minimal environmental impact if classified as “run-of-river”, arguing that any hydro project would inevitably alter river systems, ecosystems and traditional land use.

The committee further criticised the consultation process, saying engagement with landowners was being treated as a post-decision step rather than a prerequisite.

“Consultation must precede decisions, not follow them,” the statement said, adding that economic incentives such as employment opportunities cannot replace genuine consent.

The Namosi Landowners Committee LAMA confirmed that concerns over the project had already been formally raised with the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission and insisted that no hydro-related development should proceed until the matter is resolved.

It also pointed to existing opposition from communities, including formal petitions from Navunikabi, questioning whose voices are being considered in national decision-making.

The committee said it was not against development but would oppose any project imposed without proper consultation, consent and respect for landowner rights.

Attempts to get comment from Energy Fiji Limited were unsuccessful.