Energy Fiji Limited has warned that Fiji could face controlled power rationing from next month if urgent fuel cost recovery support is not secured.
In a media release today, EFL said the country’s electricity system is under severe operational and financial pressure due to escalating global fuel prices, increased dependence on thermal generation and worsening dry season conditions.
Chief Executive Officer Fatiaki Gibson said the current global fuel crisis combined with dry season hydrological pressures had created “extraordinary operating conditions” for the national electricity system.
“These measures are not being considered lightly. Our responsibility is to act early, plan responsibly, and protect national electricity supply for all Fijians,” Gibson said.
EFL revealed that industrial diesel oil generation costs in Viti Levu have climbed to 86.70 cents per kilowatt hour, compared to the average selling tariff of 38.4 cents per kilowatt hour, resulting in a loss of 48.30 cents per unit generated.
The company also confirmed that Monasavu dam water levels are below preferred dry season operating levels, with renewable generation expected to drop to between 30 and 35 percent during the dry season.
Thermal generation is expected to rise to as much as 70 percent of total electricity demand.
EFL said if full fuel recovery support for March and April is received by May 22, operations will continue as normal. However, if only partial support is received, controlled rotational load shedding will begin from June 1.
The company warned that if no support is secured, nationwide controlled power rationing will commence from June 1 following public notification.
EFL stressed that essential services such as hospitals, water and sewerage systems, emergency services, airports and ports would continue to receive priority protection under all contingency scenarios.
