PM Rabuka urges businesses to invest in renewable energy

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged the private sector to invest more in renewable energy, innovation and technologies that can strengthen Fiji’s economic resilience.

Speaking at the unveiling of British American Tobacco (BAT) Fiji’s new solar panel system this morning at Nabua in Suva, Mr Rabuka said private investment was essential to achieving Fiji’s long-term economic growth and climate goals.

He said Fiji remained vulnerable to imported fossil fuel prices, climate disruptions and external economic shocks, making renewable energy an important part of strengthening energy security.

British American Tobacco Fiji has invested about $1.5 million in solar installations at its Nabua and Nadi facilities, which are expected to provide a significant share of the company’s electricity needs while reducing emissions.

Mr Rabuka said the investment showed that businesses could adopt renewable energy without compromising productivity or competitiveness.

“Sustainability is increasingly becoming a component of competitiveness,” he said.

He called on businesses across Fiji to invest in renewable energy, energy efficiency, resilient supply chains and new technologies.

“The private sector creates jobs. The private sector develops skills. And the private sector introduces new technologies, expands markets and increases productivity,” he said.

Mr Rabuka said Fiji’s transition to a greener economy required contributions from Government, businesses, communities and development partners, with the ultimate goal of building a more productive, competitive and resilient nation.