Opposition MP Premila Kumar says Energy Fiji Limited is not a distressed utility and that the proposed electricity tariff increase reflects failures in governance, regulation and ministerial oversight.
In a statement, Kumar criticised the approval of the tariff increase by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission, saying it was granted without proper public consultation as required by law.
She said the decision was only suspended after widespread public pressure, not because regulatory safeguards functioned effectively.
Kumar questioned why FCCC approved a tariff increase for a profitable monopoly utility without requiring full disclosure of EFL’s financial position, cost structures and long-term investment plans.
“EFL is not a distressed utility, yet consumers are being asked to pre-finance future projects, including renewable energy investments, through higher electricity bills,” Kumar said.
“That is unfair and unacceptable. The financial risk should not be shifted onto struggling households.”
She also pointed to the Government’s role as EFL’s majority shareholder, saying accountability cannot be avoided.
“The Minister appoints the Board, and this process reflects ministerial failure just as much as regulatory weakness,” Kumar said.
While supporting Fiji’s transition to renewable energy, Kumar warned that the push must not be treated as a blank cheque.
She questioned whether alternatives such as rooftop solar, decentralised generation and independent power producers were adequately assessed before seeking higher tariffs from consumers.
Kumar also criticised the consultation process, saying engagement after approval does not amount to genuine public consultation.
“Consultation after the fact is not consultation — it is justification. Poor attendance does not mean agreement; it exposes poor outreach and inadequate transparency,” she said.
She concluded that until governance failures, regulatory weaknesses and accountability issues are addressed, any electricity tariff increase in Fiji remains unjustified and should not be passed on to consumers.
