The Consumer Council of Fiji is calling on the FCCC to ensure there is authentic and effective engagement during consultations on the electricity tariff that has started today.
While acknowledging the FCCC, the Council says these consultations must be accessible, well-publicized, and conducted in a format that enables genuine understanding and feedback.
They say they should not be mere mobile units for collecting written submissions, but structured forums held in accessible venues where detailed presentations are made.
They say the public must first hear the full case, understand the complex data, and then have a proper opportunity to ask questions and provide informed feedback.
The Council stresses the process must be more than a formality; it must be a meaningful exercise in public dialogue.
While demanding full transparency, the Council is also calling on the FCCC to require EFL to present a complete and unambiguous case for the increase.
They say this must include a detailed breakdown of costs, efficiency measures already undertaken, investment plans, and a clear demonstration of how this burden will be managed to minimize consumer impact.
They stress the “why” must be answered conclusively.
The Council also says any decision must balance the utility’s operational needs with the fundamental right of the public to affordable and reliable electricity.
They have also highlighted that the decision to consult is proof that collective concern can influence critical national processes.
They are urging everyone to participate actively and attend these consultations, listen to the presentations, ask the hard questions, and articulate the real-world impact this increase would have on their household budget or their business.
They stress that people's lived experience is the most powerful evidence in this debate.
The Council says they will be making a comprehensive submission, grounded in economic data and the direct feedback they have received from their members and the community.
They say they will stand with the public to ensure that the outcome of this consultation is fair, justified, and in the long-term interest of Fiji’s economic stability and social welfare.
They also encourage people to call them on toll-free 155 or email them their concerns and feedback at complaints@consumersfiji.org so that the same can be included in the submission.
The Council adds they will be closely monitoring the consultation process and remain committed to advocating for a rational and sustainable outcome.
