Power bills set to rise, Govt support for Lifeline customers continue

Households across Fiji will begin paying higher electricity bills from May 26 following the implementation of a new fuel surcharge approved by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC).

The FCCC confirmed that an interim surcharge of 5.91 cents per kilowatt-hour will be added to existing electricity tariffs, increasing the domestic rate to 39.92 cents per kWh.

The increase comes amid continued volatility in global fuel prices, which has significantly affected the cost of electricity generation in Fiji.

As a result of the adjustment, an average household consuming 200 kilowatt-hours per month can expect to pay about $11.82 more on their electricity bill.

The FCCC said the temporary surcharge was necessary to ensure the uninterrupted supply of electricity, noting that rising fuel prices had placed pressure on Energy Fiji Limited’s operational costs.

However, Government relief measures have been introduced to support vulnerable households.

Lifeline customers already receiving electricity subsidies will continue to receive assistance to help manage rising costs.

The FCCC also said the surcharge would be closely monitored through regular assessments to ensure consumers were not overcharged and that only verified fuel costs were passed on.

Read more in tomorrow's Fiji Sun edition.