Buy a generator if you think you need to have power supply soon after a cyclone - Patel

Buy a generator if you want power supply in your area soon after a cyclone.

That is the message from the CEO of the Energy Fiji Limited, Hasmukh Patel to those people who are raising questions on why some residential areas have not been energised although there are no visible damages to power poles and electrical lines in their areas.

Patel says they have certain procedures which have to be followed before power is restored.

He says they do not have unlimited labour force and cannot just employ people for a cyclone and keep them on their payroll as it will be a cost to the EFL.

Patel says they currently have around 400 people engaged in restoring power supply around Fiji and also have 15 private contractors.

Patel adds he personally has been tackling cyclones for 42 and a half years.

Patel says there are people who have a misconception about EFL’s operations regarding power restoration.

EFL’s power restoration priority following a cyclone starts with major hospitals and health centres, water pumping stations, water and sewerage treatment plants, central business districts, commercial and industrial areas and residential areas.

Looking at power restoration - 16% of the areas have been restored in Pacific Harbour and Deuba, 20% in Navua, 10% in Naboro, 49% in Lami, 96% in Suva, 69%t in Nasinu, 33% in Koronivia and Nakasi, 15% in Nausori, 3% in Naitasiri, 0% in Wailoa, 1% in Korovou, 30 % in Tavua, 10% in Nadarivatu, 60% in Ba, 100% in Nadi and Lautoka, 60% in Sigatoka, 40% in Savusavu and 0% in Labasa, Seaqaqa and Dreketi.