THE Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) is working with the Australian government’s Market Development Facility (MDF) to identify solutions that can reduce regulatory barriers related to solar energy licensing and installation.
The two institutions will explore means of enhancing regulatory functions relating to solar energy, including the introduction of a digitised payment system and ensuring a streamlined approval process that allows for easy extraction of data for reporting.
The FCCC stated the solar energy sector had significant potential to help Fiji achieve its climate change objectives, particularly to meet the government’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) target of reducing carbon emissions by 30 per cent through a green energy transition.
The FCCC regulates various industries, including the energy sector, to ensure fair competition, protect consumer rights and foster economic growth.
And under the Electricity Act 2017, FCCC has been the sole authority for generation and installation licensing since September 30, 2019.
“As such, this partnership will help FCCC streamline regulatory licensing processes and create an environment that encourages investment in renewable energy and supports households and businesses in transitioning to solar energy,” said FCCC chief executive officer Senikavika Jiuta.
She said they sought to improve the efficiency and transparency of licencing by streamlining the present process – from receiving applications to approvals, while also incorporating complaint management to address consumer protection issues and stakeholder concerns.
Ms Jiuta said the FCCC-MDF collaboration followed recent market research conducted by MDF and Solar Hub Fiji on urban household and business demand for solar energy.
The survey revealed nearly 70 per cent of households were willing to invest in solar energy systems using their own funds, while 50 per cent indicated an interest in loans or subscription models, it said.
The survey also highlighted the need to improve regulatory frameworks to create a favourable environment for both commercial and residential adoption of solar energy solutions.
MDF Fiji Country Director Kelera Cavuilati said they were proud to support FCCC in its critical work to streamline regulatory processes for renewable energy in Fiji.
She said the partnership reflected their shared commitment to advancing the Government’s priorities in achieving its carbon emission reduction targets.
“Together, we aim to create an enabling environment that encourages investment in solar energy, benefiting both households and businesses while contributing to a more sustainable future,” Ms Cavuilati said.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated April 16, 2025
